Surgical staple and driver arrangements for staple cartridges

ABSTRACT

A staple cartridge that includes a multi-staple driver is disclosed. The multi-staple driver is configured to drive multiple staples from the staple cartridge. The staples are arranged in a staple array in which at least one staple is angularly-oriented relative to the longitudinal axis of the staple cartridge. The multi-staple driver can drive staples at various angular orientations and/or from multiple rows of staple cavities. A driverless staple cartridge is also disclosed. A sled in the driverless cartridge is configured to directly engage and drive staples. The staples are arranged in a staple array in which at least one staple is angularly-oriented relative to the longitudinal axis of the driverless staple cartridge.

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to stapling instruments and, in variousembodiments, to a surgical stapling instrument for producing one or morerows of staples.

A stapling instrument can include a pair of cooperating elongate jawmembers, wherein each jaw member can be adapted to be inserted into apatient and positioned relative to tissue that is to be stapled and/orincised. In various embodiments, one of the jaw members can support astaple cartridge with at least two laterally spaced rows of staplescontained therein, and the other jaw member can support an anvil withstaple-forming pockets aligned with the rows of staples in the staplecartridge. Generally, the stapling instrument can further include apusher bar and a knife blade which are slidable relative to the jawmembers to sequentially eject the staples from the staple cartridge viacamming surfaces on the pusher bar and/or camming surfaces on a wedgesled that is pushed by the pusher bar. In at least one embodiment, thecamming surfaces can be configured to activate a plurality of stapledrivers carried by the cartridge and associated with the staples inorder to push the staples against the anvil and form laterally spacedrows of deformed staples in the tissue gripped between the jaw members.In at least one embodiment, the knife blade can trail the cammingsurfaces and cut the tissue along a line between the staple rows.Examples of such stapling instruments are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.7,794,475, entitled SURGICAL STAPLES HAVING COMPRESSIBLE OR CRUSHABLEMEMBERS FOR SECURING TISSUE THEREIN AND STAPLING INSTRUMENTS FORDEPLOYING THE SAME, the entire disclosure of which is herebyincorporated by reference herein.

The foregoing discussion is intended only to illustrate various aspectsof the related art in the field of the invention at the time, and shouldnot be taken as a disavowal of claim scope.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various features of the embodiments described herein are set forth withparticularity in the appended claims. The various embodiments, however,both as to organization and methods of operation, together withadvantages thereof, may be understood in accordance with the followingdescription taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings asfollows:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a surgical fastening instrument inaccordance with at least one embodiment;

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of an end effector of the surgical fasteninginstrument of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a top plan view of a fastener cartridge of the end effector ofFIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a bottom plan view of an anvil of the end effector of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a partial bottom plan view of an anvil in accordance with atleast one embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a partial bottom plan view of an anvil in accordance with atleast one embodiment;

FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of an end effector including astaple cartridge that includes angularly-oriented staples, a group offirst multi-staple drivers, and a group of second multi-staple drivers,according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of one of the first multi-staple drivers ofFIG. 7;

FIG. 8A is a plan view of the first multi-staple driver of FIG. 8;

FIG. 8B is a perspective view of the first multi-staple driver of FIG. 8and further showing staples of FIG. 7 supported by the multi-stapledriver;

FIG. 8C is perspective view of one of the second multi-staple drivers ofFIG. 7;

FIG. 8D is a plan view of the second multi-staple driver of FIG. 8C;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the second multi-staple driver of FIG.8C and further showing staples of FIG. 7 supported by the multi-stapledriver;

FIG. 10 is a plan view of a staple cartridge according to variousembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 is a plan view of an arrangement of multi-staple drivers anddriving wedges, according to various embodiments of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 12 is a plan view of an arrangement of multi-staple drivers anddriving wedges, according to various embodiments of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 13 is a plan view of an arrangement of multi-staple drivers anddriving wedges, according to various embodiments of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 14 is a plan view of an arrangement of single-staple drivers anddriving wedges, according to various embodiments of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 15 is an elevation view of the driving wedges of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a plan view of an arrangement of staples and driving wedges,according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a staple in accordance with at leastone embodiment illustrated in an unformed, or unfired, configuration;

FIG. 18 is an elevational view of the staple of FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is an elevational view of the staple of FIG. 17 in a formed, orfired, configuration;

FIG. 20 is an elevational view of a staple comprising an expandablecoating in accordance with at least one embodiment illustrated in anunformed, or unfired, configuration;

FIG. 21 is a partial bottom plan view of the staple of FIG. 20 deployedinto the tissue of a patient;

FIG. 22 is a partial bottom plan view of the staple of FIG. 20 deployedinto the tissue of a patient illustrating the coating in an expandedcondition;

FIG. 23 depicts tissue stapled by a staple line in accordance with atleast one embodiment;

FIG. 24 depicts tissue stapled by a staple line in accordance with atleast one embodiment;

FIG. 25 depicts tissue stapled by a staple line in accordance with atleast one embodiment;

FIG. 26 is an elevation view of a driving wedge and a staple, accordingto various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the driving wedge and the staple ofFIG. 26;

FIG. 28 is a plan view of the driving wedge and the staple of FIG. 26;

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a circular stapling device;

FIG. 29A is perspective view of a portion of a stapling head of acircular stapling device and a fastener cartridge assembly;

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of portion of a stapling head of acircular stapling device and another fastener cartridge assembly;

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of portion of a stapling head of acircular stapling device and another fastener cartridge assembly;

FIG. 32 depicts tissue stapled by a staple line in accordance with atleast one embodiment wherein at least some of the staples in the stapleline overlap;

FIG. 33 is a partial plan view of a staple cartridge configured todeploy the staple line of FIG. 32;

FIG. 34 is a partial plan view of an anvil configured to deform thestaples ejected from the staple cartridge of FIG. 33;

FIG. 35 is a partial plan view of a staple cartridge configured todeploy a staple line in accordance with at least one embodiment;

FIG. 36 is a partial plan view of an anvil configured to deform thestaples ejected from the staple cartridge of FIG. 35;

FIG. 37 is an exploded perspective view of an end effector including adriverless staple cartridge having a sled, according to variousembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 38 is a perspective view of the sled of FIG. 37;

FIG. 38A is a partial plan view of the sled of FIG. 37 and a staple,depicting the deployment progression of the staple;

FIG. 38B is an elevation view of the sled of FIG. 37 and a staple,depicting the deployment progression of the staple;

FIG. 39 is a perspective view of a sled for the driverless staplecartridge depicted in FIG. 37, according to various embodiments of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 39A is a partial plan view of a driverless staple cartridge havingangled staples and the sled of FIG. 39, according to various embodimentsof the present disclosure;

FIG. 39B is a partial perspective view of the sled of FIG. 39 and thestaples of FIG. 20, according to various embodiments of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 40 is a partial, perspective view of a sled and a staple, accordingto various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 41 is a plan view of an array of staples, according to variousembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 42 is a plan view of an array of staples and driving wedges,according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 43 is a partial perspective view of a staple cartridge having anarrangement of angled staple cavities therein, according to variousembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 44 is a partial plan view of the staple cartridge of FIG. 43;

FIG. 45 is a perspective cross-sectional partial view of the staplecartridge of FIG. 43, depicting staples and drivers positioned withinthe staple cartridge;

FIG. 46 is a partial, perspective view of a staple cartridge having anarrangement of angled staple cavities therein, according to variousembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 47 is a partial, plan view of the staple cartridge of FIG. 46;

FIG. 48 is a partial, perspective cross-sectional view of the staplecartridge of FIG. 46;

FIG. 49 is a partial, perspective view of a staple cartridge having anarrangement of angled staple cavities therein, according to variousembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 50 is a partial, plan view of the staple cartridge of FIG. 49;

FIG. 51 is a partial, perspective cross-sectional view of the staplecartridge of FIG. 49, depicting staples and multi-staple driverspositioned within the staple cartridge;

FIG. 52 depicts a previous staple pattern implanted in tissue;

FIG. 52A depicts the staple pattern deployed by the staple cartridge ofFIG. 3;

FIG. 52B depicts the staple pattern of FIG. 52A in a stretchedcondition;

FIG. 53 is a partial plan view of a staple cartridge comprising acartridge body and an implantable adjunct material positioned on thecartridge body in accordance with at least one embodiment;

FIG. 54 is a partial plan view of an implantable adjunct material inaccordance with at least one embodiment;

FIG. 55 is a partial plan view of a staple cartridge comprising acartridge body and an implantable adjunct material positioned on thecartridge body in accordance with at least one embodiment;

FIG. 56 is a partial plan view of an implantable adjunct material inaccordance with at least one embodiment;

FIG. 57 is a partial plan view of an implantable adjunct material inaccordance with at least one embodiment;

FIG. 58 is an exploded perspective view of an end effector and a portionof a surgical stapling instrument;

FIG. 59 is a perspective view of a surgical staple cartridge with abuttress member supported on the deck of the staple cartridge in aposition wherein the buttress may be removed from the cartridge;

FIG. 60 is a top view of the surgical staple cartridge and buttressmember of FIG. 59;

FIG. 61 is a perspective view of a portion of the surgical staplecartridge and buttress member of FIGS. 59 and 60;

FIG. 62 is a top view of another portion of the surgical staplecartridge and buttress member of FIGS. 59-61:

FIG. 63 is a perspective view of a proximal end of the surgical staplecartridge and buttress member of FIGS. 59-62;

FIG. 64 is another perspective view of the proximal end of the surgicalstaple cartridge and buttress member of FIGS. 59-63 with the retainingtab folded over for insertion into the longitudinal slot in thecartridge;

FIG. 65 is another perspective view of the proximal end of the surgicalstaple cartridge and buttress member of FIGS. 59-64 with the retainingtab inserted into the longitudinal slot and retained therein by thestaple sled;

FIG. 66 is an exploded assembly view of another surgical staplecartridge and another buttress member;

FIG. 67 is a bottom view of the buttress member of FIG. 66;

FIG. 68 is an enlarged view of a portion of the buttress member of FIG.67, with positions of the underlying staple cavities in the staplecartridge shown in broken lines;

FIG. 69 is an enlarged view of a portion of another buttress member,with positions of the underlying staple cavities in the staple cartridgeshown in broken lines;

FIG. 70 is a top view of a portion of another buttress member, withpositions of the underlying staple cavities in the staple cartridgeshown in broken lines;

FIG. 71 is a top view of a portion of another buttress member;

FIG. 72 is a cross-sectional view of the buttress member of FIG. 71taken along line 72-72 in FIG. 71;

FIG. 73 is a perspective view of another surgical staple cartridge;

FIG. 74 is a top view of the surgical staple cartridge of FIG. 73;

FIG. 75 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the surgicalstaple cartridge of FIGS. 73 and 74;

FIG. 76 is a top view of another surgical staple cartridge;

FIG. 77 is a side elevational view of a portion of a surgical staplingdevice with tissue “T” clamped between the surgical staple cartridge ofFIG. 76 and the anvil of the device;

FIG. 78 is an enlarged view of a portion of the surgical staplecartridge of FIGS. 76 and 77 with a portion thereof shown incross-section;

FIG. 79 is a partial, cross-sectional elevation view of a staplecartridge and an anvil, according to various embodiments of the presentdisclosure; and

FIG. 80 is a partial, cross-sectional elevation view of a staplecartridge and an anvil, according to various embodiments of the presentdisclosure.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding partsthroughout the several views. The exemplifications set out hereinillustrate various embodiments of the invention, in one form, and suchexemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of theinvention in any manner.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Applicant of the present application owns the following patentapplications which were filed on even date herewith and which are eachherein incorporated by reference in their respective entireties:

U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled CIRCULAR FASTENERCARTRIDGES FOR APPLYING RADIALLY EXPANDABLE FASTENER LINES, AttorneyDocket No. END7503USNP/140283;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL STAPLE ANDDRIVER ARRANGEMENTS FOR STAPLE CARTRIDGES, Attorney Docket No.END7505USNP/140285;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL STAPLINGBUTTRESSES AND ADJUNCT MATERIALS, Attorney Docket No.END7506USNP/140286;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled FASTENER CARTRIDGE FORCREATING A FLEXIBLE STAPLE LINE, Attorney Docket No. END7507USNP/140287;and

U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled METHOD FOR CREATING AFLEXIBLE STAPLE LINE, Attorney Docket No. END7508USNP/140288.

Applicant of the present application owns the following patentapplications which were filed on Jun. 30, 2014 and which are each hereinincorporated by reference in their respective entireties:

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/318,996, entitled FASTENERCARTRIDGES INCLUDING EXTENSIONS HAVING DIFFERENT CONFIGURATIONS;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/319,006, entitled FASTENER CARTRIDGECOMPRISING FASTENER CAVITIES INCLUDING FASTENER CONTROL FEATURES;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/319,014, entitled END EFFECTORCOMPRISING AN ANVIL INCLUDING PROJECTIONS EXTENDING THEREFROM;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/318,991, entitled SURGICAL FASTENERCARTRIDGES WITH DRIVER STABILIZING ARRANGEMENTS;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/319,004, entitled SURGICAL ENDEFFECTORS WITH FIRING ELEMENT MONITORING ARRANGEMENTS;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/319,008, entitled FASTENER CARTRIDGECOMPRISING NON-UNIFORM FASTENERS;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/318,997, entitled FASTENER CARTRIDGECOMPRISING DEPLOYABLE TISSUE ENGAGING MEMBERS;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/319,002, entitled FASTENER CARTRIDGECOMPRISING TISSUE CONTROL FEATURES;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/319,013, entitled FASTENER CARTRIDGEASSEMBLIES AND STAPLE RETAINER COVER ARRANGEMENTS; and

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/319,016, entitled FASTENER CARTRIDGEINCLUDING A LAYER ATTACHED THERETO.

Numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thoroughunderstanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and useof the embodiments as described in the specification and illustrated inthe accompanying drawings. It will be understood by those skilled in theart, however, that the embodiments may be practiced without suchspecific details. In other instances, well-known operations, components,and elements have not been described in detail so as not to obscure theembodiments described in the specification. Those of ordinary skill inthe art will understand that the embodiments described and illustratedherein are non-limiting examples, and thus it can be appreciated thatthe specific structural and functional details disclosed herein may berepresentative and illustrative. Variations and changes thereto may bemade without departing from the scope of the claims.

The terms “comprise” (and any form of comprise, such as “comprises” and“comprising”), “have” (and any form of have, such as “has” and“having”), “include” (and any form of include, such as “includes” and“including”) and “contain” (and any form of contain, such as “contains”and “containing”) are open-ended linking verbs. As a result, a surgicalsystem, device, or apparatus that “comprises,” “has,” “includes” or“contains” one or more elements possesses those one or more elements,but is not limited to possessing only those one or more elements.Likewise, an element of a system, device, or apparatus that “comprises,”“has,” “includes” or “contains” one or more features possesses those oneor more features, but is not limited to possessing only those one ormore features.

The terms “proximal” and “distal” are used herein with reference to aclinician manipulating the handle portion of the surgical instrument.The term “proximal” referring to the portion closest to the clinicianand the term “distal” referring to the portion located away from theclinician. It will be further appreciated that, for convenience andclarity, spatial terms such as “vertical”, “horizontal”, “up”, and“down” may be used herein with respect to the drawings. However,surgical instruments are used in many orientations and positions, andthese terms are not intended to be limiting and/or absolute.

A surgical fastening instrument 100 is depicted in FIG. 1. The surgicalfastening instrument 100 is configured to deploy an expandable stapleline. Various expandable staple lines are disclosed herein and thesurgical fastening instrument 100 is capable of deploying any one ofthese expandable staple lines. Moreover, surgical instruments other thanthe surgical fastening instrument 100 are capable of deploying any oneof the expandable staple lines disclosed herein.

The surgical fastening instrument 100 comprises a handle 110, a shaft120, and an end effector 200. The handle 110 comprises a pistol grip140, a closure trigger 150 configured to operate a closure system, afiring trigger 160 configured to operate a firing system, and anarticulation actuator 170 configured to operate an articulation systemfor articulating the end effector 200 relative to the shaft 120. Thedisclosure of U.S. Pat. No. 7,845,537, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTHAVING RECORDING CAPABILITIES, which issued on Dec. 7, 2010, isincorporated by reference in its entirety. Other embodiments areenvisioned which comprise a single trigger configured to operate aclosure system and a firing system. Various embodiments are envisionedin which the end effector of the surgical instrument is notarticulatable. The disclosure of U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/974,166, entitled FIRING MEMBER RETRACTION DEVICES FOR POWEREDSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, which was filed on Aug. 23, 2013, is incorporatedby reference in its entirety.

The closure trigger 150 is rotatable toward the pistol grip 140 toactuate the closure system. Referring primarily to FIG. 2, the closuresystem comprises a closure tube 122 which is advanced distally when theclosure trigger 150 is moved toward the pistol grip 140. The closuretube 122 is engaged with a first jaw including an anvil 220 of the endeffector 200. In at least one instance, the anvil 220 comprises one ormore projections 228 extending therefrom which are positioned in one ormore elongated slots 212 defined in a second jaw. The projections 228and the elongated slots 212 are structured and arranged to permit theanvil 220 to be rotated between an open position and a closed positionrelative to a stationary, or fixed, cartridge channel 210 of the secondjaw. In various alternative embodiments, a cartridge channel can berotatable relative to a stationary, or fixed, anvil 220. Regardless ofwhether the cartridge channel or the anvil of an end effector is fixed,the end effector may be articulatable or non-articulatable relative tothe shaft.

Referring again to FIG. 2, the anvil 220 includes a tab 226 which isengaged with a slot 124 defined in the closure tube 122. When theclosure tube 122 is moved distally by the closure trigger 150, asidewall of the slot 124 can engage the tab 226 and rotate the anvil 220toward the cartridge channel 210. When the closure tube 122 is movedproximally, another sidewall of the slot 124 can engage the tab 226 androtate the anvil 220 away from the cartridge channel 210. In someinstances, a biasing spring can be positioned intermediate the anvil 220and the cartridge channel 210 which can be configured to bias the anvil220 away from the cartridge channel 210.

Referring again to FIG. 2, the firing trigger 160 is rotatable towardthe pistol grip 140 to actuate the firing system. The firing systemcomprises a firing member extending within the shaft 120. The firingsystem further comprises a sled 250 which is operably engaged with thefiring member. When the firing trigger 160 is rotated toward the pistolgrip 140, the firing trigger 160 drives the firing member and the sled250 distally within the end effector 200. The end effector 200 furthercomprises a staple cartridge 230 positioned within the cartridge channel210. The staple cartridge 230 is replaceable and, thus, removable fromthe cartridge channel 210; however, other embodiments are envisioned inwhich the staple cartridge 230 is not readily replaceable and/orremovable from the cartridge channel 210.

The staple cartridge 230 comprises a plurality of staple cavities 270.Each staple cavity 270 is configured to removably store a stapletherein, although it is possible that some staple cavities 270 may notcontain a staple stored therein. The staple cartridge 230 furthercomprises a plurality of staple drivers 240 movably positioned therein.Each driver 240 is configured to support three staples and/or lift thethree staples out of their respective staple cavities 270 at the sametime, or concurrently. Although each driver 240 of the embodimentdepicted in FIGS. 1-4 deploys three staples concurrently, otherembodiments are envisioned in which a driver may deploy less than threestaples or more than three staples concurrently. The sled 250 comprisesone or more ramp surfaces 252 which are configured to slide under thedrivers 240 and lift the drivers 240 upwardly toward a deck surface 233of the staple cartridge 230. The sled 250 is movable from a proximal end231 of the staple cartridge 230 toward a distal end 232 to sequentiallylift the drivers 240. When the drivers 240 are lifted toward the deck bythe sled 250, the drivers 240 lift the staples toward the anvil 220. Asthe sled 250 is progressed distally, the staples are driven against theanvil 220 and are ejected from the staple cavities 270 by the drivers240. The staple cartridge 230 can further comprise a support pan 260attached thereto which extends around the bottom of the staple cartridge230 and retains the drivers 240, the staples, and/or the sled 250 withinthe cartridge 230.

The sled 250 and/or the pusher member which advances the sled 250distally can be configured to engage the first jaw including the anvil220 and/or the second jaw including the staple cartridge 230 andposition the anvil 220 and the staple cartridge 230 relative to oneanother. In at least one instance, the sled 250 comprises at least onefirst projection 256 extending therefrom which is configured to engagethe anvil 220 and at least one second projection 258 configured toengage the cartridge channel 210. The projections 256 and 258 canposition the anvil 220 and the staple cartridge 230 relative to oneanother. As the sled 250 is advanced distally, the projections 256 and258 can position the anvil 220 and set the tissue gap between the anvil220 and the deck 233.

The end effector 200 can further comprise a cutting member configured toincise tissue captured between the staple cartridge 230 and the anvil220. Referring again to FIG. 2, the sled 250 includes a knife 254;however, any suitable cutting member could be utilized. As the sled 250is being advanced distally to deploy the staples from the staplecavities 270, the knife 254 is moved distally to transect the tissue. Incertain alternative embodiments, the firing member which pushes the sled250 distally can include a cutting member. The cartridge 230 includes alongitudinal slot 234 configured to at least partially receive the knife254. The anvil 220 also includes a longitudinal slot configured to atleast partially receive the knife 254; however, embodiments areenvisioned in which only one of the cartridge 230 and the anvil 220includes a slot configured to receive a cutting member.

Further to the above, referring primarily to FIG. 1, the handle 110 ofthe surgical instrument 100 comprises an articulation actuator 170which, when actuated, can articulate the end effector 200 about anarticulation joint 180. When the actuator 170 is pushed in a firstdirection, the end effector 200 can be rotated in a first direction and,when the actuator 170 is pushed in a second direction, the end effector200 can be rotated in a second, or opposite, direction. Referring now toFIG. 2, the end effector 200 includes an articulation lock plate 182mounted to the proximal end thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, thelock plate 182 is mounted to the cartridge channel 210 via a pin 184which extends through apertures 214 defined in the cartridge channel 210and the lock plate 182. The shaft 120 can further include a lock movablebetween a first, engaged, position in which the lock is engaged with thelock plate 182 and a second, or disengaged, position in which the lockis disengaged from the lock plate. When the lock is in its engagedposition, the lock can hold the end effector 200 in position. When thelock is in its disengaged position, the end effector 200 can be rotatedabout the articulation joint 180. The disclosure of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/314,788, entitled ROBOTICALLY-CONTROLLED SHAFTBASED ROTARY DRIVE SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, which was filed onJun. 25, 2014, is incorporated by reference in its entirety. Thedisclosure of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013/0168435,entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH AN ARTICULATABLE ENDEFFECTOR, which was filed on Feb. 26, 2013, is incorporated by referencein its entirety.

Turning now to FIGS. 3 and 4, the staple cavities 270 of the staplecartridge 200 can be positioned and arranged such that the staplesstored in the staple cavities are deployed as part of an extensiblestaple line. The staple cavities 270 are arranged in a staple cavityarray. The staple cavity array comprises a first row of staple cavities270 a which removably stores a first row of staples. The first row ofstaple cavities 270 a extends along a first longitudinal axis 272 aadjacent the longitudinal slot 234. The staple cavity array comprises asecond row of staple cavities 270 b which removably stores a second rowof staples. The second row of staple cavities 270 b extends along asecond longitudinal axis 272 b adjacent the first row of staple cavities270 a. The staple cavity array comprises a third row of staple cavities270 c which removably stores a third row of staples. The third row ofstaple cavities 270 c extends along the second row of staple cavities270 b.

Referring again to FIGS. 3 and 4, the first longitudinal axis 272 a isparallel, or at least substantially parallel, to the second longitudinalaxis 272 b; however, other arrangements are possible in which the firstlongitudinal axis 272 a is not parallel to the second longitudinal axis272 b. The second longitudinal axis 272 b is parallel, or at leastsubstantially parallel, to the third longitudinal axis 272 c; however,other arrangements are possible in which the second longitudinal axis272 b is not parallel to the third longitudinal axis 272 c. The firstlongitudinal axis 272 a is parallel, or at least substantially parallel,to the third longitudinal axis 272 c; however, other arrangements arepossible in which the first longitudinal axis 272 a is not parallel tothe third longitudinal axis 272 c.

Referring again to FIGS. 3 and 4, the staple cartridge 230 comprises afirst portion of the staple cavity array including a first row 270 a, asecond row 270 b, and a third row 270 c on a first side of thelongitudinal slot 234 and a second portion of the cavity array includinga first row 270 a, a second row 270 b, and a third row 270 c on a secondside of the longitudinal slot 234. The first cavity array portion is amirror image of the second cavity array portion with respect to thelongitudinal slot; however, other arrangements may be utilized.

The staple cartridge 230 is configured to deploy the staple arraydepicted in FIG. 52A. The staple cartridge 230 is configured to deploy afirst row of staples 280 a along a first longitudinal axis 282 a, asecond row of staples 280 b along a second longitudinal axis 282 b, anda third row of staples 280 c along a third longitudinal axis 282 c. Invarious instances, the staple cartridge 230 is configured to deploy afirst row of staples 280 a, a second row of staples 280 b, and a thirdrow of staples 280 c on a first side of a longitudinal incision 284 anda first row of staples 280 a, a second row of staples 280 b, and a thirdrow of staples 280 c on a second side of the longitudinal incision 284.The first rows of staples 280 a can be positioned adjacent thelongitudinal incision 284 and the third row of staples 280 c can bepositioned furthest away from the longitudinal incision 284. Each secondrow of staples 280 b can be positioned intermediate a first row ofstaples 280 a and a third row of staples 280 c.

Further to the above, the first staples 280 a are removably stored inthe first staple cavities 270 a, the second staples 280 b are removablystored in the second staple cavities 270 b, and the third staples 280 care removably stored in the third staple cavities 270 c. The staplecavities 270 a-270 c are configured and arranged to deploy the staples280 a-280 c in the arrangement depicted in FIG. 52A. The first staples280 a are oriented at a first angle 274 a with respect to thelongitudinal axis 282 a. The second staples 280 b are oriented at asecond angle 274 b with respect to a longitudinal axis 282 b. The thirdstaples 280 c are oriented at a third angle 274 c with respect to thelongitudinal axis 282 c. The first angle 274 a is different than thesecond angle 274 b; however, in other embodiments, the first angle 274 aand the second angle 274 b can be the same. The third angle 274 c isdifferent than the second angle 274 b; however, in other embodiments,the third angle 274 c and the second angle 274 b can be the same. Thefirst angle 274 a is the same as the third angle 274 c; however, inother embodiments, the first angle 274 a and the third angle 274 c canbe different.

Further to the above, the first angle 274 a can be measured with respectto the first longitudinal axis 282 a, the second angle 274 b can bemeasured with respect to the second longitudinal axis 282 b, and thethird angle 274 c can be measured with respect to the third longitudinalaxis 282 c. When the first longitudinal axis 282 a, the secondlongitudinal axis 282 b, and/or the third longitudinal axis 282 c areparallel to one another, the first angle 274 a, the second angle 274 b,and/or the third angle 274 c can be measured with respect to any one ofthe first longitudinal axis 282 a, the second longitudinal axis 282 b,and the third longitudinal axis 282 c. When the first longitudinal axis282 a, the second longitudinal axis 282 b, and/or the third longitudinalaxis 282 c are parallel to the longitudinal slot 234, the first angle274 a, the second angle 274 b, and/or the third angle 274 c can bemeasured with respect to the longitudinal slot 234. Correspondingly,when the first longitudinal axis 282 a, the second longitudinal axis 282b, and/or the third longitudinal axis 282 c are parallel to the tissuetransection 284, the first angle 274 a, the second angle 274 b, and/orthe third angle 274 c can be measured with respect to the tissuetransection 284.

The first staples 280 a, the second staples 280 b, and the third staples280 c can be positioned and arranged such that they providelaterally-overlapping staple lines. More particularly, referring againto FIG. 52A, the longitudinal row of second staples 280 b is positionedlaterally with respect to the longitudinal row of first staples 280 asuch that the second staples 280 b are aligned with the gaps between thefirst staples 280 a and, similarly, the longitudinal row of thirdstaples 280 c is positioned laterally with respect to the longitudinalrow of second staples 280 b such that the third staples 280 c arealigned with the gaps between the second staples 280 b. Such anarrangement can limit the flow of blood from the tissue T to thetransection 284.

In the illustrated embodiment, each first staple 280 a comprises adistal leg 283 a which is distal with respect to a distal leg 283 b ofan adjacent second staple 280 b and, in addition, a proximal leg 285 awhich is proximal with respect to the distal leg 283 b. Similarly, eachthird staple 280 c comprises a distal leg 283 c which is distal withrespect to the distal leg 283 b of the adjacent second staple 280 b and,in addition, a proximal leg 285 c which is proximal with respect to thedistal leg 283 b. The second staple 280 b adjacent the first staple 280a and the third staple 280 c mentioned above comprises a proximal leg285 b which is proximal with respect to the proximal leg 285 a of thefirst staple 280 a and the proximal leg 285 c of the third staple 280 c.This is but one exemplary embodiment and any suitable arrangement couldbe utilized.

Further to the above, the first staples 280 a straddle the firstlongitudinal axis 282 a. The distal legs 283 a of the first staples 280a are positioned on one side of the first longitudinal axis 282 a andthe proximal legs 285 a are positioned on the other side of the firstlongitudinal axis 282 a. Stated another way, the legs of the firststaples 280 a are offset with respect to the first longitudinal axis 282a. Alternative embodiments are envisioned in which the first staples 280a are aligned with or collinear with the first longitudinal axis 282 a.

The second staples 280 b straddle the second longitudinal axis 282 b.The distal legs 283 b of the second staples 280 b are positioned on oneside of the second longitudinal axis 282 b and the proximal legs 285 bare positioned on the other side of the second longitudinal axis 282 b.Stated another way, the legs of the second staples 280 b are offset withrespect to the second longitudinal axis 282 b. Alternative embodimentsare envisioned in which the second staples 280 b are aligned with orcollinear with the second longitudinal axis 282 b.

The third staples 280 c straddle the third longitudinal axis 282 c. Thedistal legs 283 c of the third staples 280 c are positioned on one sideof the third longitudinal axis 282 c and the proximal legs 285 c arepositioned on the other side of the third longitudinal axis 282 c.Stated another way, the legs of the third staples 280 c are offset withrespect to the third longitudinal axis 282 c. Alternative embodimentsare envisioned in which the third staples 280 c are aligned with orcollinear with the third longitudinal axis 282 c.

In certain embodiments, a first staple 280 a can comprise a proximal leg285 a which is aligned with the distal leg 283 b of an adjacent secondstaple 280 b. Similarly, a third staple 280 c can comprise a proximalleg 285 c which is aligned with the distal leg 283 b of an adjacentsecond staple 280 b. In various embodiments, a first staple 280 a cancomprise a proximal leg 285 a which is positioned distally with respectto the distal leg 283 b of an adjacent second staple 280 b. Similarly, athird staple 280 c can comprise a proximal leg 285 c which is positioneddistally with respect to the distal leg 283 b of an adjacent secondstaple 280 b.

The row of second staples 280 b is bounded by the row of first staples280 a and the row of third staples 280 c. A second staple 280 b isbounded on one side by a first staple 280 a and on the other side by athird staple 280 c. More particularly, a first staple 280 a ispositioned laterally inwardly with respect to the proximal leg 285 b ofa second staple 280 b and, similarly, a third staple 280 c is positionedlaterally outwardly with respect to the distal leg 283 b of the secondstaple 280 b. As a result, the first staples 280 a can provide aboundary on one side of the second staples 280 b and the third staples280 b can provide a boundary on the other side of the second staples 280b.

A traditional staple array is illustrated in FIG. 52. This staple arraycomprises a first row of staples 380 a positioned along a firstlongitudinal axis 382 a, a second row of staples 380 b positioned alonga second longitudinal axis 382 b, and a third row of staples 380 cpositioned along a third longitudinal axis 382 c positioned on a firstside of an incision 384 in the tissue T. The staples 380 a are aligned,or at least substantially aligned, with the first longitudinal axis 382a; the staples 380 b are aligned, or at least substantially aligned,with the second longitudinal axis 382 b; and the staples 380 c arealigned, or at least substantially aligned, with the third longitudinalaxis 382 c. Stated another way, the first staples 380 a are not orientedat an angle with respect to the first longitudinal axis 382 a, thesecond staples 380 b are not oriented at an angle with respect to thesecond longitudinal axis 382 b, and the third staples 380 c are notoriented at an angle with respect to the third longitudinal axis 382 c.This staple array also comprises a first row of staples 380 a positionedalong a first longitudinal axis 382 a, a second row of staples 380 bpositioned along a second longitudinal axis 382 b, and a third row ofstaples 380 c positioned along a third longitudinal axis 382 cpositioned on a second, or opposite, side of the incision 384.

When a longitudinal tensile force is applied to the tissue T stapled bythe staple array illustrated in FIG. 52, the tissue will stretchlongitudinally. Moreover, in various instances, the staples 380 a, 380b, and 380 c can translate longitudinally as the tissue is stretchedlongitudinally. Such an arrangement can be suitable in manycircumstances; however, the staples 380 a, 380 b, and 380 c can restrictthe stretching and/or movement of the tissue. In some instances, thetissue that has been stapled by the staples 380 a, 380 b, and 380 c maybe far less flexible than the adjacent tissue that has not been stapled.Stated another way, the staple array comprising the staples 380 a, 380b, and 380 c can create a sudden change in the material properties ofthe tissue. In at least one instance, a large strain gradient can becreated within the tissue as a result of the staple array which, inturn, can create a large stress gradient within the tissue.

When the staples 380 a-380 c are ejected from the staple cartridge, thelegs of the staples can puncture the tissue T. As a result, the staplelegs create holes in the tissue. Various types of tissue are resilientand can stretch around the staple legs as the staple legs pass throughthe tissue. In various instances, the resiliency of the tissue canpermit the tissue to stretch and resiliently return toward the staplelegs to reduce or eliminate gaps present between the tissue and thestaple legs. Such resiliency can also permit the tissue to stretch whena stretching force is applied to the tissue; however, such resiliencycan be inhibited by certain staple patterns. In at least one instance,the staple pattern depicted in FIG. 52 can inhibit the longitudinalstretching of the tissue. When a longitudinal stretching force isapplied to the tissue stapled by the staple pattern of FIG. 52, thetissue may begin to pull away from the staple legs and create gapstherebetween. In some instances, especially in bariatric resectionapplications, such gaps can result in increased bleeding from thestomach tissue. In certain instances, especially in lung resectionapplications, air leaks can result in the lung tissue.

The staple array depicted in FIG. 52A is more flexible than the staplearray depicted in FIG. 52. When a longitudinal tensile force is appliedto the tissue T, referring now to FIG. 52B, the staples 280 a, 280 b,and 280 c can, one, translate longitudinally as the tissue is stretchedlongitudinally and/or, two, rotate as the tissue is stretchedlongitudinally. The compliant staple array depicted in FIG. 52 cancreate significant extensibility along the staple lines, such as in thelongitudinal direction defined by the staple lines, for example. Suchlongitudinal extensibility can reduce the stress and/or strain gradientwithin the stapled tissue T and/or the tissue T surrounding the stapledtissue T. Moreover, the compliant staple array depicted in FIG. 52A canreduce or eliminate the gaps between the staple legs and the tissue Twhen a longitudinal stretching force is applied to the tissue and, as aresult, reduce the bleeding and/or air leaks between the staple legs andthe tissue.

With regard to the longitudinal translation of the staples 280 a, 280 b,and 280 c, the first staples 280 a can move along the first longitudinalaxis 282 a, the second staples 280 b can move along the secondlongitudinal axis 282 b, and the third staples 280 c can move along thethird longitudinal axis 282 c. When the first staples 280 a move alongthe first longitudinal axis 282 a, the first staples 280 a can spreadout across the first longitudinal axis 282 a. Stated another way, thedistance between the first staples 280 a, or gap distance, can increasewhen a longitudinal force is applied to the tissue along, and/orparallel to, the first longitudinal axis 282 a. Similarly, the secondstaples 280 b can spread out across the second longitudinal axis 282 bwhen the second staples 280 b move along the second longitudinal axis282 b. The distance between the second staples 280 b, or gap distance,can increase when a longitudinal force is applied to the tissue along,and/or parallel to, the second longitudinal axis 282 b. Also, similarly,the third staples 280 c can spread out across the third longitudinalaxis 282 c when the third staples 280 c move along the thirdlongitudinal axis 282 c. The distance between the third staples 280 c,or gap distance, can increase when a longitudinal force is applied tothe tissue along, and/or parallel to, the third longitudinal axis 282 c.

As discussed above, the staples 280 a, 280 b, and/or 280 c can move withthe tissue T when the tissue T is stretched. When the tissue T is pulledlongitudinally, further to the above, the first longitudinal axis 282 a,the second longitudinal axis 282 b, and/or the third longitudinal axis282 c can remain parallel to one another. In some instances, theorientation of the first longitudinal axis 282 a, the secondlongitudinal axis 282 b, and/or the third longitudinal axis 282 c canbecome non-parallel, such as when a transverse force, i.e., a forcewhich is transverse to the longitudinal force, is applied to the tissueT, for example. In certain instances, the first longitudinal axis 282 a,the second longitudinal axis 282 b, and/or the third longitudinal axis282 c can move closer to each other when the tissue T is pulledlongitudinally. Such movement can be the result of transversecontraction that occurs within the tissue T when a longitudinalstretching force is applied to the tissue T. In some instances, thefirst longitudinal axis 282 a, the second longitudinal axis 282 b,and/or the third longitudinal axis 282 c can move away from each other,such as when a transverse force is applied to the tissue T, for example.

With regard to the rotational movement of the staples 280 a, 280 b, and280 c, the first staples 280 a can rotate with respect to the firstlongitudinal axis 282 a when a longitudinal tensile force is applied tothe tissue T. Each first staple 280 a can rotate between an initialfirst angle 274 a and another first angle 274 a when a longitudinaltensile force is applied to the tissue T. In at least one instance, eachfirst staple 280 a can rotate between an initial orientation in whichthe first staple 280 a extends in a transverse direction to the firstlongitudinal axis 282 a and another orientation which is closer to beingaligned with the first longitudinal axis 282 a. In some instances, theapplication of a longitudinal tensile force to the tissue T can causethe first staples 280 a to rotate into an orientation which is collinearwith the first longitudinal axis 282 a. In various instances, each firststaple 280 a can rotate about an axis extending through the firstlongitudinal axis 282 a.

As discussed above, a first staple 280 a can rotate between an initialfirst angle 274 a and another first angle 274 a when a longitudinaltensile force is applied to the tissue T. In various embodiments, theinitial, or unstretched, first angle 274 a can be between approximately5 degrees and approximately 85 degrees, for example. In certainembodiments, the initial, or unstretched, first angle 274 a can bebetween approximately 30 degrees and approximately 60 degrees, forexample. In at least one embodiment, the initial, or unstretched, firstangle 274 a can be approximately 45 degrees, for example. In at leastone embodiment, the initial, or unstretched, first angle 274 a can beapproximately 10 degrees, approximately 20 degrees, approximately 30degrees, approximately 40 degrees, approximately 50 degrees,approximately 60 degrees, approximately 70 degrees, and/or approximately80 degrees, for example.

In various instances, the stretched first angle 274 a can be betweenapproximately 5 degrees and approximately 85 degrees, for example. Incertain instances, the stretched first angle 274 a can be betweenapproximately 30 degrees and approximately 60 degrees, for example. Inat least one instance, the stretched first angle 274 a can beapproximately 45 degrees, for example. In at least one instance, thestretched first angle 274 a can be approximately 10 degrees,approximately 20 degrees, approximately 30 degrees, approximately 40degrees, approximately 50 degrees, approximately 60 degrees,approximately 70 degrees, and/or approximately 80 degrees, for example.

In various instances, the difference between the unstretched first angle274 a and the stretched first angle 274 a can be between approximately 1degree and approximately 45 degrees, for example. In certain instances,the difference between the unstretched first angle 274 a and thestretched first angle 274 a can be approximately 1 degree, approximately2 degrees, approximately 3 degrees, approximately 4 degrees, and/orapproximately 5 degrees, for example. In certain instances, thedifference between the unstretched first angle 274 a and the stretchedfirst angle 274 a can be approximately 5 degrees, approximately 10degrees, approximately 15 degrees, approximately 20 degrees, and/orapproximately 25 degrees, for example.

Further to the above, the second staples 280 b can rotate with respectto the second longitudinal axis 282 b when a longitudinal tensile forceis applied to the tissue T. Each second staple 280 b can rotate betweenan initial second angle 274 b and another second angle 274 b when alongitudinal tensile force is applied to the tissue T. In at least oneinstance, each second staple 280 b can rotate between an initialorientation in which the second staple 280 b extends in a transversedirection to the second longitudinal axis 282 b and another orientationwhich is closer to being aligned with the second longitudinal axis 282b. In some instances, the application of a longitudinal tensile force tothe tissue T can cause the second staples 280 b to rotate into anorientation which is collinear with the second longitudinal axis 282 b.In various instances, each second staple 280 b can rotate about an axisaligned with and/or extending through the second longitudinal axis 282b.

As discussed above, a second staple 280 b can rotate between an initialsecond angle 274 b and another second angle 274 b when a longitudinaltensile force is applied to the tissue T. In various embodiments, theinitial, or unstretched, second angle 274 b can be between approximately5 degrees and approximately 85 degrees, for example. In certainembodiments, the initial, or unstretched, second angle 274 b can bebetween approximately 30 degrees and approximately 60 degrees, forexample. In at least one embodiment, the initial, or unstretched, secondangle 274 b can be approximately 45 degrees, for example. In at leastone embodiment, the initial, or unstretched, second angle 274 b can beapproximately 10 degrees, approximately 20 degrees, approximately 30degrees, approximately 40 degrees, approximately 50 degrees,approximately 60 degrees, approximately 70 degrees, and/or approximately80 degrees, for example.

In various instances, the stretched second angle 274 b can be betweenapproximately 5 degrees and approximately 85 degrees, for example. Incertain instances, the stretched second angle 274 b can be betweenapproximately 30 degrees and approximately 60 degrees, for example. Inat least one instance, the stretched second angle 274 b can beapproximately 45 degrees, for example. In at least one instance, thestretched second angle 274 b can be approximately 10 degrees,approximately 20 degrees, approximately 30 degrees, approximately 40degrees, approximately 50 degrees, approximately 60 degrees,approximately 70 degrees, and/or approximately 80 degrees, for example.

In various instances, the difference between the unstretched secondangle 274 b and the stretched second angle 274 b can be betweenapproximately 1 degree and approximately 45 degrees, for example. Incertain instances, the difference between the unstretched second angle274 b and the stretched second angle 274 b can be approximately 1degree, approximately 2 degrees, approximately 3 degrees, approximately4 degrees, and/or approximately 5 degrees, for example. In certaininstances, the difference between the unstretched second angle 274 b andthe stretched second angle 274 b can be approximately 5 degrees,approximately 10 degrees, approximately 15 degrees, approximately 20degrees, and/or approximately 25 degrees, for example.

Further to the above, the third staples 280 c can rotate with respect tothe third longitudinal axis 282 c when a longitudinal tensile force isapplied to the tissue T. Each third staple 280 c can rotate between aninitial third angle 274 c and another third angle 274 c when alongitudinal tensile force is applied to the tissue T. In at least oneinstance, each third staple 280 c can rotate between an initialorientation in which the third staple 280 c extends in a transversedirection to the third longitudinal axis 282 c and another orientationwhich is closer to being aligned with the third longitudinal axis 282 c.In some instances, the application of a longitudinal tensile force tothe tissue T can cause the third staples 280 c to rotate into anorientation which is collinear with the third longitudinal axis 282 c.In various instances, each third staple 280 c can rotate about an axisaligned with and/or extending through the third longitudinal axis 282 c.

As discussed above, a third staple 280 c can rotate between an initialthird angle 274 c and another third angle 274 c when a longitudinaltensile force is applied to the tissue T. In various embodiments, theinitial, or unstretched, third angle 274 c can be between approximately5 degrees and approximately 85 degrees, for example. In certainembodiments, the initial, or unstretched, third angle 274 c can bebetween approximately 30 degrees and approximately 60 degrees, forexample. In at least one embodiment, the initial, or unstretched, thirdangle 274 c can be approximately 45 degrees, for example. In at leastone embodiment, the initial, or unstretched, third angle 274 c can beapproximately 10 degrees, approximately 20 degrees, approximately 30degrees, approximately 40 degrees, approximately 50 degrees,approximately 60 degrees, approximately 70 degrees, and/or approximately80 degrees, for example.

In various instances, the stretched third angle 274 c can be betweenapproximately 5 degrees and approximately 85 degrees, for example. Incertain instances, the stretched third angle 274 c can be betweenapproximately 30 degrees and approximately 60 degrees, for example. Inat least one instance, the stretched third angle 274 c can beapproximately 45 degrees, for example. In at least one instance, thestretched third angle 274 c can be approximately 10 degrees,approximately 20 degrees, approximately 30 degrees, approximately 40degrees, approximately 50 degrees, approximately 60 degrees,approximately 70 degrees, and/or approximately 80 degrees, for example.

In various instances, the difference between the unstretched third angle274 c and the stretched third angle 274 c can be between approximately 1degree and approximately 45 degrees, for example. In certain instances,the difference between the unstretched third angle 274 c and thestretched third angle 274 c can be approximately 1 degree, approximately2 degrees, approximately 3 degrees, approximately 4 degrees, and/orapproximately 5 degrees, for example. In certain instances, thedifference between the unstretched third angle 274 c and the stretchedthird angle 274 c can be approximately 5 degrees, approximately 10degrees, approximately 15 degrees, approximately 20 degrees, and/orapproximately 25 degrees, for example.

In various instances, the first staples 280 a in the first row ofstaples can rotate a first amount and the second staples 280 b in thesecond row of staples can rotate a second amount which is different thanthe first amount. The first amount can be less than or more than thesecond amount. In various instances, the first staples 280 a in thefirst row of staples can rotate a first amount and the third staples 280c in the third row of staples can rotate a third amount which isdifferent than the first amount. The first amount can be less than ormore than the third amount. In various instances, the third staples 280c in the third row of staples can rotate a third amount and the secondstaples 280 b in the second row of staples can rotate a second amountwhich is different than the third amount. The third amount can be lessthan or more than the second amount.

In at least one application, it may be desirable for the innermost rowsof staples, i.e., the row of staples closest to the incision, to be moreinflexible, or inextensible, than the other rows of staples. It may alsobe desirable for the outermost rows of staples, i.e., the row of staplesfurthest away from the incision, to be more flexible, or extensible,than the other rows of staples. When the angle between the first stapleaxes and the first longitudinal axis is smaller than the angle betweenthe second staple axes and the second longitudinal axis, the firststaples may have less room to rotate toward the first longitudinal axisthan the second staples have to rotate toward the second longitudinalaxis and, thus, may stiffen the tissue more than the second staples.Similarly, when the angle between the second staple axes and the secondlongitudinal axis is smaller than the angle between the third stapleaxes and the third longitudinal axis, the second staples may have lessroom to rotate toward the second longitudinal axis than the thirdstaples have to rotate toward the third longitudinal axis and, thus, maystiffen the tissue more than the third staples

Further to the above, the staple pattern disclosed in FIG. 52A comprisessix longitudinal rows of staples. Other embodiments are envisioned whichcomprise less than six rows of staples, such as four rows of staples,for example, or more than six rows of staples, such as eight rows ofstaples, for example.

The first staples 280 a, the second staples 280 b, and the third staples280 c can comprise any suitable configuration such as, for example, aV-shaped configuration or a U-shaped configuration. A staple comprisinga V-shaped configuration can include a base, a first leg extending froma first end of the base, and a second leg extending from a second end ofthe base, wherein the first leg and the second leg extend in directionswhich are non-parallel to one another. A staple comprising a U-shapedconfiguration can include a base, a first leg extending from a first endof the base, and a second leg extending from a second end of the base,wherein the first leg and the second leg extend in directions which areparallel to one another.

With regard to the staple pattern disclosed in FIG. 52A, for example,each first staple 280 a comprises a proximal staple leg 285 a and adistal staple leg 283 a. A staple cartridge configured to deploy thestaple pattern disclosed in FIG. 52A can include a proximal end and adistal end. The proximal staple leg 285 a can be closer to the proximalend of the staple cartridge than the distal staple leg 283 a and,similarly, the distal staple leg 283 a can be closer to the distal endof the staple cartridge than the proximal staple leg 285 a. The base ofeach first staple 280 a can define a first base axis. The proximalstaple leg 285 a and the distal staple leg 283 a can extend from thefirst base axis. The first staples 280 a can be positioned and arrangedsuch that the first base axes extend toward the longitudinal cut line284 and toward the distal end of the staple cartridge.

With regard to the staple pattern disclosed in FIG. 52A, for example,each second staple 280 b comprises a proximal staple leg 285 b and adistal staple leg 283 b. As discussed above, a staple cartridgeconfigured to deploy the staple pattern disclosed in FIG. 52A caninclude a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal staple leg 285 bcan be closer to the proximal end of the staple cartridge than thedistal staple leg 283 b and, similarly, the distal staple leg 283 b canbe closer to the distal end of the staple cartridge than the proximalstaple leg 285 b. The base of each second staple 280 b can define asecond base axis. The proximal staple leg 285 b and the distal stapleleg 283 b can extend from the second base axis. The second staples 280 bcan be positioned and arranged such that the second base axes extendtoward the longitudinal cut line 284 and toward the proximal end of thestaple cartridge.

With regard to the staple pattern disclosed in FIG. 52A, for example,each third staple 280 c comprises a proximal staple leg 285 c and adistal staple leg 283 c. As discussed above, a staple cartridgeconfigured to deploy the staple pattern disclosed in FIG. 52A caninclude a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal staple leg 285 ccan be closer to the proximal end of the staple cartridge than thedistal staple leg 283 c and, similarly, the distal staple leg 283 c canbe closer to the distal end of the staple cartridge than the proximalstaple leg 285 c. The base of each third staple 280 c can define a thirdbase axis. The proximal staple leg 285 c and the distal staple leg 283 ccan extend from the third base axis. The third staples 280 c can bepositioned and arranged such that the third base axes extend toward thelongitudinal cut line 284 and toward the distal end of the staplecartridge.

With regard to the staple pattern disclosed in FIG. 52A, for example,the first staples 280 a can be aligned with the third staples 280 c. Theproximal staple leg 285 a of a first staple 280 a can be aligned withthe proximal staple leg 285 c of a third staple 280 c. When the proximalstaple leg 285 a is aligned with the proximal staple leg 285 c, theproximal staple leg 285 a and the proximal leg 285 c can be positionedalong an axis which is perpendicular to the cut line 284. The distalstaple leg 283 a of the first staple 280 a can be aligned with thedistal staple leg 283 c of the third staple 280 c. When the distalstaple leg 283 a is aligned with the distal staple leg 283 c, the distalstaple leg 283 a and the distal staple leg 283 c can be positioned alongan axis which is perpendicular to the cut line 284. In suchcircumstances, the third staple 280 c can seal the tissue in the eventthat the first staple 280 a is malformed. Similarly, the first staple280 a can hold the tissue together in the event that the third staple280 c is malformed. In other embodiments, the first staples 280 a maynot be aligned with the third staples 280 c.

Further to the above, the first staples 280 a can be aligned with thethird staples 280 c when the staple pattern is in an unstretchedcondition. When the staple pattern is stretched longitudinally, thefirst staples 280 a and/or the third staples 280 c can translate and/orrotate. In various circumstances, the first staples 280 a can remainaligned with the third staples 280 c when the tissue is stretchedlongitudinally. In other circumstances, the first staples 280 a may notremain aligned with the third staples 280 c.

With regard to the staple pattern disclosed in FIG. 52A once again, thedistal staple leg 283 b of a second staple 280 b can be aligned with theproximal staple leg 285 a of a first staple 280 a and/or the proximalleg 285 c of a third staple 280 c. The distal staple leg 283 b of thesecond staple 280 b, the proximal staple leg 285 a of the first staple280 a, and/or the proximal staple leg 285 c of the third staple 280 ccan be positioned along an axis which is perpendicular to the cut line284. The proximal staple leg 285 b of a second staple 280 b can bealigned with the distal staple leg 283 a of a first staple 280 a and/orthe distal staple leg 283 c of a third staple 280 c. The proximal stapleleg 285 b of the second staple 280 b, the distal staple leg 283 a of thefirst staple 280 a, and/or the distal staple leg 283 c of the thirdstaple 280 c can be positioned along an axis which is perpendicular tothe cut line 284.

Further to the above, the staple legs of the second staples 280 b can bealigned with the staple legs of the first staples 280 a and/or the thirdstaples 280 c when the staple pattern is in an unstretched condition.When the staple pattern is stretched longitudinally, the first staples280 a, the second staples 280 b, and/or the third staples 280 c cantranslate and/or rotate. In various circumstances, the legs of thesecond staples 280 b may not remain aligned with the legs of the firststaples 280 a and/or the third staples 280 c when the tissue isstretched longitudinally. In other circumstances, the legs of the secondstaples 280 b can remain aligned with the legs of the first staples 280a and/or the third staples 280 c when the tissue is stretchedlongitudinally.

In various embodiments, a staple pattern can be arranged such that thestaples in one longitudinal staple row overlap with the staples inanother longitudinal staple row. For instance, the distal staple leg 283b of a second staple 280 b can be positioned distally with respect tothe proximal staple leg 285 a of a first staple 280 a and/or theproximal leg 285 c of a third staple 280 c. For instance, the proximalstaple leg 285 b of a second staple 280 b can be positioned proximallywith the distal staple leg 283 a of a first staple 280 a and/or thedistal staple leg 283 c of a third staple 280 c. The proximal staple leg285 b of the second staple 280 b, the distal staple leg 283 a of thefirst staple 280 a, and/or the distal staple leg 283 c of the thirdstaple 280 c can be positioned along an axis which is perpendicular tothe cut line 284.

As discussed above, the second staples 280 b can overlap with the firststaples 280 a and/or the third staples 280 c when the staple pattern isin an unstretched condition. When the staple pattern is stretchedlongitudinally, the first staples 280 a, the second staples 280 b,and/or the third staples 280 c can translate and/or rotate. In variouscircumstances, the second staples 280 b can remain overlapped with thefirst staples 280 a and/or the third staples 280 c when the tissue isstretched longitudinally. In some circumstances, the second staples 280b may no longer be overlapped with the first staples 280 a and/or thethird staples 280 c when the tissue is stretched longitudinally.

The staple pattern depicted in FIG. 52A is depicted in an unstretchedcondition. When the tissue stapled by the staple pattern depicted inFIG. 52A is stretched longitudinally, the staples can movelongitudinally with the tissue and/or rotate within the tissue, asillustrated in FIG. 52B. Such movement is also illustrated in FIG. 24.

The surgical instrument 100 is configured to be used during alaparoscopic surgical procedure. The end effector 200 and the shaft 120are sized and dimensioned to be inserted through a trocar, or cannula,into a patient. The trocar can comprise an inner passage comprising aninner diameter. In some instances, the inner diameter can beapproximately 5 mm or approximately 12 mm, for example. The end effector200 is a linear end effector that applies staples along straight lines.Other surgical instruments are envisioned which apply staples along atleast partially curved lines, such as those disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.8,827,133, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICE HAVING SUPPORTS FOR AFLEXIBLE DRIVE MECHANISM, which issued on Sep. 9, 2014, for example. Theentire disclosure of U.S. Pat. No. 8,827,133, entitled SURGICAL STAPLINGDEVICE HAVING SUPPORTS FOR A FLEXIBLE DRIVE MECHANISM, which issued onSep. 9, 2014, is incorporated by reference in its entirety. Suchsurgical instruments could be adapted to apply curved expandable staplelines utilizing the principles disclosed herein. While the surgicalinstrument 100 is adapted to be used during laparoscopic surgicalprocedures, the surgical instrument 100 could be utilized during an opensurgical procedure where the surgical instrument 100 is inserted througha large incision in the patient. Moreover, the expandable staple linesdisclosed herein could be applied by an open surgical stapler, such asthose disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0042205,entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT, which was filed on Oct. 21, 2013,for example. The disclosure of U.S. Patent Application Publication No.2014/0042205, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT, which was filed onOct. 21, 2013, is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

Turning now to FIG. 4, the anvil 220 includes an array of formingpockets 290 a, 290 b, and 290 c defined therein configured to deform thestaples 280 a, 280 b, and 280 c, respectively. The first forming pockets290 a are positioned along a first longitudinal axis 292 a, the secondlongitudinal pockets 290 b are positioned along a second longitudinalaxis 292 b, and the third forming pockets 290 c are positioned along athird longitudinal axis 292 c. The longitudinal axes 292 a, 292 b, and292 c are parallel and extend between a proximal end 221 and a distalend 222 of the anvil 220. The anvil 220 further comprises a longitudinalslot 224 defined therein configured to receive at least a portion of afiring member. In at least one instance, the firing member includes acutting portion that extends between the anvil 220 and the staplecartridge 230. The anvil 220 comprises a row of first forming pockets290 a, a row of second forming pockets 290 b, and a row of third formingpockets 290 c on one side of the longitudinal slot 224 and another rowof first forming pockets 290 a, row of second forming pockets 290 b, androw of third forming pockets 290 c on the other side of the longitudinalslot 224. As the reader will appreciate, the forming pockets 290 a, 290b, and 290 c are aligned with and correspond to the staple cavities 270a, 270 b, and 270 c, respectively, defined in the staple cartridge 230.

The forming pockets 290 a, 290 b, and 290 c are configured to deform thestaples 280 a, 280 b, and 280 c into a B-shaped configuration, forexample. In various instances, the forming pockets 290 a, 290 b, and 290c are configured to deform U-shaped staples and/or V-shaped staples, forexample, into such a B-shaped configuration. Each forming pocket 290 a,290 b, and 290 c comprises a proximal end configured to receive aproximal leg of a staple and a distal end configured to receive thedistal leg of the staple. That said, any suitable anvil can be utilizedto form the staples ejected from a staple cartridge into any suitableshape. Each forming pocket 290 a, 290 b, and 290 c can comprise a grooveextending between the proximal end and the distal end thereof. Thegroove can include sidewalls configured to deform a staple within aplane and prevent, or at least limit, the movement of the staple legsout of that plane as the staple legs are deformed.

Turning now to FIG. 5, an anvil 320 comprises an array of formingpockets 390 a, 390 b, and 390 c defined therein. Similar to the above, aplurality of first forming pockets 390 a are arranged along a firstlongitudinal axis, a plurality of second forming pockets 390 b arearranged along a second longitudinal axis, and a plurality of thirdforming pockets 390 c are arranged along a third longitudinal axis. Eachforming pocket 390 a, 390 b, and 390 c includes a proximal formingpocket end and a distal forming pocket end. For example, each firstforming pocket 390 a includes a proximal end 393 a configured to receivea proximal leg of a first staple and a distal end 395 a configured toreceive a distal leg of the first staple, each second forming pocket 390b includes a proximal end 393 b configured to receive a proximal leg ofa second staple and a distal end 395 b configured to receive a distalleg of the second staple, and each forming pocket 390 c includes aproximal end 393 c configured to receive a proximal leg of a thirdstaple and a distal end 395 c configured to receive a distal leg of thethird staple.

The proximal ends 393 a, 393 b, and 393 c and the distal ends 395 a, 395b, and 395 c can comprise any suitable configuration. Referring again toFIG. 5, the proximal ends 393 a, 393 b, and 393 c and the distal ends395 a, 395 b, and 395 c each comprise an enlarged cup. The enlarged cupsare wider than a groove 397 defined therebetween. In certain instances,the enlarged cups and the groove extending therebetween can comprise anhourglass shape, for example. When the legs of a staple enter such aforming pocket, the legs can enter the enlarged cups and, as the staplelegs are deformed, the enlarged cups can guide the staple legs into thegroove 397. Each enlarged cup can include curved and/or angled sidewallswhich can be configured to guide a staple leg toward the groove 397. Theenlarged cups can, in certain instances, adjust the orientation of amisaligned staple leg.

The staple forming pockets 390 a, 390 b, and 390 c are nested. Forinstance, the distal enlarged cup 395 b of a second forming pocket 390 bis positioned intermediate the enlarged cups 393 c, 395 c of an adjacentthird staple forming pocket 390 c and, additionally, the proximalenlarged cup 393 b of a second forming pocket 390 b is positionedintermediate the enlarged cups 393 a, 395 a of an adjacent first formingpocket 390 a. Also, for instance, the proximal enlarged cup 393 a of afirst forming pocket 390 a is positioned intermediate the enlarged cups393 b, 395 b of an adjacent second forming pocket 390 b. Additional, forinstance, the distal enlarged cup 395 c of a third forming pocket 390 cis positioned intermediate the enlarged cups 393 b, 395 b of an adjacentsecond forming pocket 390 b. The enlarged forming cups of each staplecavity can define a rectangular perimeter within which the entireforming pocket can be positioned. As a result of the nesting arrangementdescribed above, the rectangular perimeter of one staple forming cavitycan overlap the rectangular perimeter of another forming cavity. Forinstance, the rectangular perimeter of a second forming cavity 390 b canoverlap the rectangular perimeter of a first forming cavity 390 a and/orthe rectangular perimeter of a third forming cavity 390 c.

Turning now to FIG. 6, an anvil 420 comprises an array of formingpockets 490 a, 490 b, and 490 c defined therein. Similar to the above, aplurality of first forming pockets 490 a are arranged along a firstlongitudinal axis, a plurality of second forming pockets 490 b arearranged along a second longitudinal axis, and a plurality of thirdforming pockets 490 c are arranged along a third longitudinal axis. Eachforming pocket 490 a, 490 b, and 490 c includes a proximal formingpocket end and a distal forming pocket end. For example, each firstforming pocket 490 a includes a proximal end 493 a configured to receivea proximal leg of a first staple and a distal end 495 a configured toreceive a distal leg of the first staple, each second forming pocket 490b includes a proximal end 493 b configured to receive a proximal leg ofa second staple and a distal end 495 b configured to receive a distalleg of the second staple, and each forming pocket 490 c includes aproximal end 493 c configured to receive a proximal leg of a thirdstaple and a distal end 495 c configured to receive a distal leg of thethird staple.

The proximal ends 493 a, 493 b, and 493 c and the distal ends 495 a, 495b, and 495 c can comprise any suitable configuration. Referring again toFIG. 6, the proximal ends 493 a, 493 b, and 493 c and the distal ends495 a, 495 b, and 495 c each comprise an enlarged cup. The enlarged cupsare wider than a groove 497 defined therebetween. In certain instances,the enlarged cups and the groove extending therebetween can comprise anhourglass shape, for example. When the legs of a staple enter such aforming pocket, the legs can enter the enlarged cups and, as the staplelegs are deformed, the enlarged cups can guide the staple legs into thegroove 497. Each enlarged cup can include curved and/or angled sidewallswhich can be configured to guide a staple leg toward the groove 497. Theenlarged cups can, in certain instances, adjust the orientation of amisaligned staple leg.

The staple forming pockets 490 a, 490 b, and 490 c are nested. Forinstance, the distal enlarged cup 495 b of a second forming pocket 490 bis positioned intermediate the enlarged cups 493 c, 495 c of an adjacentthird staple forming pocket 490 c and, additionally, the proximalenlarged cup 493 b of a second forming pocket 490 b is positionedintermediate the enlarged cups 493 a, 495 a of an adjacent first formingpocket 490 a. Also, for instance, the proximal enlarged cup 493 a of afirst forming pocket 490 a is positioned intermediate the enlarged cups493 b, 495 b of an adjacent second forming pocket 490 b. Additional, forinstance, the distal enlarged cup 495 c of a third forming pocket 490 cis positioned intermediate the enlarged cups 493 b, 495 b of an adjacentsecond forming pocket 490 b. The enlarged forming cups of each staplecavity can define a rectangular perimeter within which the entireforming pocket can be positioned. As a result of the nesting arrangementdescribed above, the rectangular perimeter of one staple forming cavitycan overlap the rectangular perimeter of another forming cavity. Forinstance, the rectangular perimeter of a second forming cavity 490 b canoverlap the rectangular perimeter of a first forming cavity 490 a and/orthe rectangular perimeter of a third forming cavity 490 c.

Referring again to FIG. 52A, the staples 280 a, 280 b, and 280 c do notoverlap. Other embodiments are envisioned in which at least some of thestaples in a staple pattern overlap. Turning now to FIG. 32, a staplepattern disclosed therein comprises a first row of longitudinal staples580 a and a second row of longitudinal staples 580 b. As the reader willappreciate, some of the staples 580 a in the first row and the staples580 b in the second row are overlapped. In at least one instance, thebase of a second staple 580 b extends under the base of a first staple580 a. In such an instance, the distal leg 585 b of the second staple580 b is positioned on one side of the base of the first staple 580 aand the proximal leg 583 b of the second staple 580 b is positioned onthe other side of the base of the first staple 580 a. Similarly, in atleast one instance, the base of a first staple 580 a extends under thebase of a second staple 580 b. In such an instance, the distal leg 585 aof the first staple 580 a is positioned on one side of the base of thesecond staple 580 b and the proximal leg 583 a of the first staple 580 ais positioned on the other side of the base of the second staple 580 b.As a result of the above, the first staples 580 a are interweaved withthe second staples 580 b.

Referring again to FIG. 32, the staple pattern comprises a first row ofstaples 580 a and a second row of staples 580 b positioned on one sideof a longitudinal tissue incision and a first row of staples 580 a and asecond row of staples 580 b positioned on the other side of thelongitudinal tissue incision. The first staples 580 a are orienteddistally and toward the longitudinal tissue incision and the secondstaples 580 b are oriented proximally and toward the longitudinal tissueincision.

Referring again to FIG. 32, the first row of staples 580 a is positionedalong a first longitudinal axis and the second row of staples 580 b ispositioned along the second longitudinal axis. As a result of theoverlap between the first staples 580 a and the second staples 580 b,the first longitudinal axis can be adjacent the second longitudinalaxis, in certain instances. In some instances, the overlap between afirst row of staples and a second row of staples can permit angledstaples in these rows of staples to have the same centerline spacingthat can be achieved with traditional, longitudinally-arranged staplepatterns, such as the staple pattern illustrated in FIG. 52, forexample. In some instances, the overlap between a first row of staplesand a second row of staples can permit angled staples in these rows ofstaples to have a closer centerline spacing than can be achieved withtraditional, longitudinally-arranged staple patterns. In at least oneembodiment, the first longitudinal axis can be collinear with the secondlongitudinal axis.

The staple pattern depicted in FIG. 32 comprises a repeating pattern.The repeating pattern comprises two first staples 580 a followed by twosecond staples 580 b followed by two first staples 580 a followed by twosecond staples 580 b, and so forth. This repeating pattern extendslongitudinally in the proximal-distal direction. The first row ofstaples 580 a has breaks therein which are filled by staples 580 b and,similarly, the second row of staples 580 b has breaks therein which arefilled by staples 580 a. A repeating pattern is present on one side ofthe longitudinal incision and a repeating pattern is present on theother side of the longitudinal incision. These repeating patterns aremirror-images of one another. Other repeating patterns are contemplated.

A staple cartridge 530 configured to removably store and deploy thestaple pattern disclosed in FIG. 32 is illustrated in FIG. 33. Thestaple cartridge 530 includes a first row of staple cavities 570 a forremovably storing the first staples 580 a and a second row of staplecavities 570 b for removably storing the second staples 580 b. At leastsome of the first staple cavities 570 a and the second staple cavities570 b are interconnected to removably store the overlapping firststaples 580 a and second staples 580 b. A first row of staple cavities570 a can be arranged along a first longitudinal axis and a row ofsecond staple cavities 570 b can be arranged along a second longitudinalaxis. The first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis canbe adjacent or collinear, as appropriate, in order to deploy the staplepatterns disclosed herein. A first row of staple cavities 570 a and asecond row of staple cavities 570 b are positioned on a first side of alongitudinal slot 534 and a first row of staple cavities 570 a and asecond row of staple cavities 570 b are positioned on a second side ofthe longitudinal slot 534. The longitudinal slot 534 is configured toreceive a firing member. The firing member can include a cuttingelement, such as a knife, for example.

An anvil 520 configured to deform the staples of the staple patterndisclosed in FIG. 32 is illustrated in FIG. 34. The anvil 520 includes arepeating pattern of forming cavities including first forming cavities590 a configured to deform the legs of the first staples 580 a andsecond forming cavities 590 b configured to deform the legs of thesecond staples 580 b. The first forming cavities 590 a and the secondforming cavities 590 b are arranged in an alternating pattern. Thealternating pattern comprises arrays of first forming cavities 590 a andsecond forming cavities 590 b positioned along a first longitudinal axisand arrays of first forming cavities 590 a and second forming cavities590 b positioned along a second longitudinal axis which are positionedon one side of a longitudinal slot 524. The alternating pattern furthercomprises arrays of first forming cavities 590 a and second formingcavities 590 b positioned along a first longitudinal axis and arrays offirst forming cavities 590 a and second forming cavities 590 bpositioned along a second longitudinal axis which are positioned on theother side of the longitudinal slot 524. The arrays of forming cavities590 a, 590 b can define a mirror image with respect to the longitudinalslot 524. The longitudinal slot 524 is configured to receive a firingmember. The firing member can include a cutting element, such as aknife, for example.

The staple pattern depicted n FIG. 32 comprises two rows of staples oneach side of the longitudinal tissue incision; however, such a staplepattern could include more than two rows of staples, such as three rowsof staples, for example. Such a third row of staples could beinterweaved with the first row of staples 580 a and/or the second row ofstaples 580 b. Alternatively, such a third row of staples may not beinterweaved with either the first row of staples 580 a or the second rowof staples 580 b. In such an embodiment, the first row of staples 580 aand the second row of staples 580 b can be interweaved and the third rowof staples could be adjacent the first row of staples 580 a and/or thesecond row of staples 580 b, for example.

The staple pattern depicted in FIG. 35 includes a longitudinal row offirst staples 680 a, a longitudinal row of second staples 680 b, and alongitudinal row of third staples 6870 c. The first staples 680 a have afirst base width. The second staples 680 b have a second base width. Thethird staples 680 c have a third base width. The width of a staple basecan be defined as the distance between a first staple leg extending fromthe base and a second staple leg extending from the base measured alongthe base extending between the first staple leg and the second stapleleg. In at least one instance, the base width is measured between thecross-sectional center of the first staple leg and the cross-sectionalcenter of the second staple leg. In any event, the first base width isshorter than the second base width; however, other embodiments areenvisioned in which the second base width is shorter than the first basewidth. The third base width is shorter than the first base width and thesecond base width; however, other embodiments are envisioned in whichthe third base width is longer than the first base width and/or thesecond base width.

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 35, the second staples 680 b have thelongest base width. As a result, when the staples in the staple patternrotate within tissue as the tissue is being stretched longitudinally,the second staples 680 b will sweep through a larger arc length than thefirst staples 680 a. Similarly, the first staples 680 a will sweepthrough a larger arc length than the third staples 680 c. In variousinstances, as a result, the first staples 680 a will sweep through afirst arc length, the second staples 680 b will sweep through a secondarc length, and the third staples 680 c will sweep through a third arclength, wherein the first arc length, the second arc length, and thethird arc length are different. Such arc lengths can be different eventhough the degree in which the staples 680 a, 680 b, and/or 680 c arethe same. In certain instances, the first arc length, the second arclength, and/or the third arc length can be the same.

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 35, the first staples 680 a arepositioned and arranged in an alternating arrangement in a staplecartridge 630. The distal most first staple 680 a is oriented toward thedistal end of the staple cartridge 630 and toward a longitudinal slot634 defined in the staple cartridge 630. The next first staple 680 a inthe second longitudinal row is oriented toward the proximal end of thestaple cartridge 630 and toward the longitudinal slot 634. This patternthen repeats within the longitudinal row of first staples 680 a.

The second staples 680 b are positioned and arranged in an alternatingarrangement in a staple cartridge 630. The distal most second staple 680b is oriented toward the distal end of the staple cartridge 630 andtoward a longitudinal slot 634 defined in the staple cartridge 630. Thenext second staple 680 b in the second longitudinal row is orientedtoward the proximal end of the staple cartridge 630 and toward thelongitudinal slot 634. This pattern then repeats within the longitudinalrow of second staples 680 b.

The third staples 680 c are positioned and arranged in an alternatingarrangement in a staple cartridge 630. The distal most third staple 680c is oriented toward the distal end of the staple cartridge 630 andtoward a longitudinal slot 634 defined in the staple cartridge 630. Thenext third staple 680 c in the third longitudinal row is oriented towardthe proximal end of the staple cartridge 630 and toward the longitudinalslot 634. This pattern then repeats within the longitudinal row of thirdstaples 680 c.

With further reference to the staple pattern depicted in FIG. 35, thelongitudinal row of first staples 380 a is nested within thelongitudinal row of second staples 380 b. Similarly, the longitudinalrow of third staples 380 c is nested within the longitudinal row ofsecond staples 380 b.

The staple cartridge 630, further to the above, comprises a plurality offirst staple cavities 670 a configured to removably store the firststaples 680 a therein. The staple cartridge 630 further comprises aplurality of second staple cavities 670 b configured to removably storethe second staples 680 b and a plurality of third staple cavities 670 cconfigured to removably store the third staples 680 c. Referring to FIG.36, an anvil 620 can be configured to deform the staples 680 a, 680 b,and 680 c as they are ejected from the staple cartridge 630. The anvil620 comprises a staple forming pocket pattern that is aligned with thestaple cavities 670 a, 670 b, and 670 c. For instance, the anvil 620comprises a plurality of first forming pockets 690 a aligned with thefirst staple cavities 670 a, a plurality of second forming pockets 690 baligned with the second staple cavities 670 b, and a plurality of thirdforming pockets 690 c aligned with the third staple cavities 670 c.

As discussed above, a staple pattern can comprise several rows. Thestaples in each row can have the same orientation or differentorientations. FIG. 23 illustrates an embodiment comprising a row ofstaples having a first group of staples 780 a oriented in a firstdirection and a second group of staples 780 b oriented in a seconddirection. The first staples 780 a and the second staples 780 b arepositioned along a longitudinal axis. The first staples 780 a are angledwith respect to the longitudinal axis and the second staples 780 b arealigned with the longitudinal axis. Other arrangements are possible. Thestaples 780 a are arranged in an alternating pattern with the staples780 b.

With continued reference to FIG. 23 and referring again to FIG. 24, thestaples within a staple row can translate and rotate within tissue whenthe tissue is stretched longitudinally. In some instances, thetranslation and/or rotation of the staples within the tissue can createholes, or gaps, between the staples and the tissue. Such holes, or gaps,can create leaks. Even though various staple patterns disclosed hereincan minimize such leaks, certain improvements to the staples themselvescan be made to reduce and/or eliminate these leaks.

Turning now to FIGS. 17 and 18, a staple, such as staples 280 a, 280 b,280 c, 380 a, 380 b, 380 c, 580 a, 580 b, 680 a, 680 b, 680 c, 780 a,and/or 780 b, for example, is depicted in an unfired configuration. Theunfired configuration of this staple is V-shaped; however, theprinciples discussed herein can be applied to any suitably-shapedstaple. FIG. 19 illustrates the staple of FIGS. 17 and 18 in a firedconfiguration. The fired configuration of this staple is B-shaped;however, the principles discussed herein can be applied to anysuitably-shaped staple. FIG. 20 depicts the staple of FIGS. 17-19including a coating 881 thereon; this staple will hereinafter bereferred to as staple 880. FIG. 21 illustrates the staple 880 deployedinto tissue and a hole, or gap, 882 present between the staple 880 andthe tissue. FIG. 22 illustrates the coating 881 on the staple 880 in anexpanded state. The expanded coating 881 can fill the entirety of thegap 882. In some circumstances, the expanded coating 881 can stretch thetissue. In various other circumstances, the coating 881 may not fill theentirety of the gap 882.

The staple 880 can be comprised of any suitable material, such as metal,for example. In certain instances, the staple 880 can be comprised oftitanium and/or stainless steel, for example.

The expandable staple coating 881 can be comprised of any suitablematerial. The staple coating 881 can be comprised of Poly-L-lactic acidand/or Poly-95L/5D-lactic acid, for example. Other copolymercompositions of PLA could be utilized. In various instances, the staplecoating 881 can begin to form a gel as soon as the staple 880 isimplanted into the tissue wherein the gel can expand to fill, or atleast partially fill, the gap 882. In various instances, the coating 881can be applied to the staple 880 by immersing the staple wire in one ormore solutions that coat the wire. In at least one instance, the staplewire can be immersed in a first solution to apply a base coating andthen a second solution to apply the PLA, for example. In some instances,the coating 881 can be applied to staples 880 when the staples 880 arepositioned in a staple cartridge. The entire disclosure of ELASTOMERICBIOMATERIALS FOR TISSUE ENGINEERING, Progress In Polymer Science 38(2013) 584-671 by Q. Chen et al. is hereby incorporated by referenceherein.

The staple coating 881 can be comprised of a hydrophilic material, forexample. A hydrophilic material can comprise a hydrogel derivitized witha peptide containing RGD peptide sequence microspheres, for example. Themetal wire of the staple 880 can be coated with a natural biopolymer,such as hyaluronan or hyaluronic acid, for example. Other hydrogelscould be utilized. In various instances, the staple coating 881 canbegin to expand as soon as the staple 880 is implanted into the tissuewherein the coating 881 can expand to fill, or at least partially fill,the gap 882. In various instances, the coating 881 can be applied to thestaple 880 by immersing the staple wire in one or more solutions thatcoat the wire. In at least one instance, the staple wire can be immersedin a first solution to apply a base coating and then a second solutionto apply the hyaluronan loaded with peptides, for example. In someinstances, the coating 881 can be applied to staples 880 when thestaples 880 are positioned in a staple cartridge. The entire disclosureof ATTACHMENT OF HYALURONAN TO METALLIC SURFACES, J. Biomed. Mater. Res.68A: 95-106 (2004) by William G. Pitt et al. is incorporated byreference herein.

The staple coating 881 can be comprised of xerogel, for example. Thestaple coating 881 can be comprised of gelatin microspheres and/ornanospheres, for example. Gelatin comprises an at least partiallydenatured, or completely denatured, form of collagen that cells can bindto and degrade through enzymatic action. In various instances, thegelatin can be loaded with fibroblast and/or platelet-derived growthfactor, for example. As the coating 881 degrades, the coating 881 can atleast partially fill and at least partially seal the gap 882. In variousinstances, the coating 881 can be applied to the staple 880 by immersingthe staple wire in a water-in-oil emulsion and then lyophilizing thegelatin microspheres and/or nanospheres onto the staple wire. The entiredisclosure of GELATIN MICROSPHERES CROSS-LINKED WITH GENIPIN FOR LOCALDELIVERY OF GROWTH FACTORS, J. Tissue Eng. Regen. Med. 4: 514-523 (2010)by Luis Solorio et al. is incorporated by reference herein.

The staple 880 is comprised of a wire having a circular cross-section;however, the staple 880 can be comprised of a wire having any suitablecross-section, such as a polygonal cross-section, for example.Non-circular cross-sections can have larger perimeters than circularcross-sections for a certain overall width. Such non-circularcross-sections can support a larger quantity of coating material thancircular cross-sections which can allow the coating to expand and filllarger holes than staples having circular cross-sections. In certaininstances, a non-circular cross section can be formed be creating one ormore grooves in a circular cross-section. In at least one such instance,such grooves can extend longitudinally along the staple legs. In someinstances, a longitudinal groove can extend along an axis. In certaininstances, a longitudinal groove can wrap around a staple leg. In atleast one instance, such a longitudinal groove can extend around a legin a helical manner

The staples of a staple cartridge can be deployed with or without theuse of an adjunct material, such as buttress material, for example.Often, an adjunct material can be placed on the top surface, or deck, ofa staple cartridge such that, when the staples are ejected from thestaple cartridge, the staples can capture the adjunct material againstthe tissue. FIG. 55 illustrates two pieces of adjunct material 239positioned on a deck surface 238 of the staple cartridge 230. A firstpiece of adjunct material 239 is positioned on a first side of thelongitudinal slot 234 and a second piece of adjunct material 239 ispositioned on a second side of the longitudinal slot 234. Alternativeembodiments are envisioned in which a single piece of adjunct materialis supported by the deck surface 238 which extends over the longitudinalslot 234 and both sides of the staple cartridge 230. Referring again toFIG. 55, each piece of adjunct material 239 is substantially rectangularand extends over a staple pattern including a row of first staplecavities 270 a, a row of second staple cavities 270 b, and a row ofthird staple cavities 270 c. The staples 280 a, 280 b, and 280 c storedin the staple cavities 270 a, 270 b, and 270 c, respectively, penetratethe adjunct material 239 when they are ejected from the staple cartridge230 and capture a portion of the adjunct material 239 therein as thestaples 280 a, 280 b, and 280 c are formed by the anvil 220.

In addition to or in lieu of the adjunct material positioned on thestaple cartridge, adjunct material may be positioned on an anvil. Thestaples penetrating the tissue could penetrate the anvil adjunct beforecontacting the anvil and then re-penetrate the anvil adjunct beforere-entering into the tissue.

After the staples 280 a, 280 b, and 280 c have been deformed by theanvil 220, further to the above, the adjunct material 239 is capturedagainst the tissue by the staples 280 a, 280 b, and 280 c. Statedanother way, the adjunct material 239 is implanted against the tissue bythe staples 280 a, 280 b, and 280 c. When the tissue is stretchedlongitudinally, as discussed above, the adjunct material 239 can stretchwith the tissue.

Adjunct materials can provide many benefits. Adjunct materials canassist in sealing the puncture holes created by the staple legs. Invarious instances, the staple legs can push the adjunct material intothe puncture holes as the staple legs pass through the tissue. Adjunctmaterials can also assist in sealing gaps created between the staplelegs and the tissue when the tissue is stretched longitudinally. Adjunctmaterials can bolster the tissue. In various instances, the adjunctmaterial can strengthen the tissue and inhibit the staples from tearingthrough the tissue.

Referring again to FIG. 55, the reader will appreciate that portions ofthe adjunct material 239 are not captured by the staples 280 a, 280 b,and 280 c. For instance, the portions of the adjunct material extendingaround the perimeter thereof may not be captured by the staples.Similarly, portions of the adjunct material positioned intermediate thestaples may not be captured by the staples. Such uncaptured portions ofthe adjunct material 239 may not provide the sealing benefits discussedabove and, at the same time, inhibit the extensibility provided by thestaple patterns discussed herein. Such uncaptured portions may alsoinhibit the rotation of the staples within the tissue, as discussedabove. Improvements to the embodiment of FIG. 55 are depicted in FIGS.53, 54, 56, and 57. Such embodiments comprise recesses, notches, cuts,slits, apertures, and/or any other suitable interruptions configured toincrease the extensibility of an adjunct material. Moreover, suchinterruptions may facilitate the rotation of the staples within thetissue.

Referring to FIG. 53, an adjunct material 939 comprises scalloped edges,or sides, 938. The scalloped sides 938 include recesses, or notches, 937defined therein. Notches 937 comprise a curved configuration; however,an suitable configuration can be utilized. The notches 937 reduce theperimeter of uncaptured material extending around the perimeter of theadjunct material 939 and increase the flexibility and extensibility ofthe adjunct material 939.

Referring again to FIG. 53, the adjunct material 939 further comprisesapertures 936 defined therein. The apertures 936 are oblong and comprisethrough holes; however, alternative embodiments are envisioned. Theapertures 936 are located intermediate adjacent second staple cavities270 b and intermediate a first staple cavity 270 a and a third staplecavity 270 c; however, alternate locations are envisioned. The apertures936 reduce the uncaptured material within the staples lines and increasethe flexibility and extensibility of the adjunct material 939.

Referring again to FIG. 53, the body of the adjunct material 939 extendsover the staple cavities 270 a, 270 b, and 270 c. Alternativeembodiments are envisioned in which the adjunct material 939 does notextend over the staple cavities 270 a, 270 b, and/or 270 c. Turning nowto FIG. 54, the adjunct material 939′ includes slots, or openings, 935a, 935 b, and 935 c which partially extend over the staple cavities 270a, 270 b, and 270 c, respectively. The openings 935 a, 935 b, and 935 care larger than the apertures 936; however, the openings 935 a, 935 b,and/or 935 c can be the same size as and/or larger than the apertures936.

Referring to FIG. 56, an adjunct material 1039 comprises notched edges,or sides, 1038. The notched sides 1038 include recesses, or notches,1037 defined therein. Notches 1037 comprise an angular configuration;however, an suitable configuration can be utilized. The notches 1037reduce the perimeter of uncaptured material extending around the adjunctmaterial 1039 and increase the flexibility and extensibility of theadjunct material 1039.

Referring again to FIG. 56, the adjunct material 1039 further comprisesslits 1036 defined therein. The slits 1036 are oblong and comprisethrough holes; however, alternative embodiments are envisioned. Theadjunct material 1039 comprises a first row of slits 1036 a and a secondrow of slits 1036 b. The slits 1036 a are located intermediate adjacentsecond staples 1080 b and intermediate a first staple 1080 a and a thirdstaple 1080 c; however, alternate locations are envisioned. The slits1036 b are located intermediate adjacent third staples 1080 c andintermediate a second staple 1080 b and a fourth staple 1080 d; however,alternate locations are envisioned. The slits 1036 a are parallel to thefirst staples 1080 a and the third staples 1080 c and, similarly, theslits 1036 b are parallel to the second staples 1080 b and the fourthstaples 1080 d; however, the slits may have any suitable direction. Theslits 1036 a and 1036 b reduce the uncaptured material within the staplelines and increase the flexibility and extensibility of the adjunctmaterial 1039. The slits 1036 a and 1036 b are shorter than the bases ofthe staples 1080 a, 1080 b, 1080 c, and 1080 d; however, embodiments areenvisioned in which the slits 1036 a and/or 1036 b are the same lengthas and/or longer than the bases of staples 1080 a, 1080 b, 1080 c, and1080 d.

Referring to FIG. 57, an adjunct material 1139 comprises notched edges,or sides, 1138. The notched sides 1138 include recesses, or notches,1137 defined therein. Notches 1137 comprise a curved configuration;however, an suitable configuration can be utilized. The notches 1137reduce the perimeter of uncaptured material extending around the adjunctmaterial 1139 and increase the flexibility and extensibility of theadjunct material 1139.

Referring again to FIG. 57, the adjunct material 1139 further comprisesslits 1136 defined therein. The slits 1136 are oblong and comprisethrough holes; however, alternative embodiments are envisioned. Theadjunct material 1139 comprises a first row of slits 1136 a and a secondrow of slits 1136 b. The slits 1136 a are located intermediate adjacentsecond staples 1180 b and intermediate a first staple 1180 a and a thirdstaple 1180 c; however, alternate locations are envisioned. The slits1136 b are located intermediate adjacent third staples 1180 c andintermediate a second staple 1180 b and a fourth staple 1180 d; however,alternate locations are envisioned. The slits 1136 a are parallel to thefirst staples 1180 a and the third staples 1180 c and, similarly, theslits 1136 b are parallel to the second staples 1180 b and the fourthstaples 1180 d; however, the slits may have any suitable direction. Theslits 1136 a and 1136 b reduce the uncaptured material within the staplelines and increase the flexibility and extensibility of the adjunctmaterial 1139. The slits 1136 a and 1136 b are shorter than the bases ofthe staples 1180 a, 1180 b, 1180 c, and 1180 d; however, embodiments areenvisioned in which the slits 1136 a and/or 1136 b are the same lengthas and/or longer than the bases of the staples 1180 a, 1180 b, 1180 c,and 1180 d.

As described herein, a firing member and/or wedge sled can traverse astaple cartridge to fire and/or eject staples from the staple cavitiesthat are defined into the staple cartridge. For example, a firing memberand/or a wedge sled can translate along a firing path within a staplecartridge, and the firing member and/or the wedge sled can engage astaple driver and/or the staple itself along the firing path to drivethe staple from the staple cavity. As also described herein, staplearrangements that include angularly-oriented staples can provide variousbenefits and advantages. For example, an array of angularly-orientedstaples can provide increased flexibility and/or longitudinalstretchability within stapled tissue.

When a staple is angularly-oriented relative to the firing path, atleast a portion of the staple driver and/or the staple may not overlapand/or overlie the firing path. For example, the base of anangularly-oriented staple can cross the firing path such that the staplelegs are positioned on opposite sides of the firing path. Additionally,an angularly-oriented staple driver can traverse the firing path, andthe ends of the staple driver can be positioned on opposite sides of thefiring path. In other instances, only an end of the staple and/or thestaple driver may overlie the firing path and, in still other instances,the staple and/or the staple driver may be entirely offset from thefiring path, for example.

In instances where at least a portion of the staple and/or the stapledriver is offset from the firing path, a moment arm between the firingpath and the portion(s) of the staple and/or the staple driverpositioned on either side of the firing path may generate a torquewithin the staple and/or within the staple driver. Torque could affecttilting and/or tipping of the staples during deployment. As a result,the staple legs of a torqued staple may not engage tissue withequivalent force and/or speed, and/or the staple legs may not pierceand/or capture the tissue simultaneously. Because torqueing and/orrotation of a staple during deployment may adversely impact tissuepenetration and/or staple formation, in various instances, it can bedesirable to prevent and/or minimize torque generation during deploymentof an array of angularly-oriented staples.

When a staple driver is angled relative to the firing path of a wedgesled, only a portion of the angled driver may receive the driving orlifting force from the wedge sled. For example, the driving force can beapplied to the angled driver along a diagonal path. To stabilize theangled driver and prevent torqueing and/or rotation of the driver, andthus, of the staple supported thereon, the wedge sled can includemultiple driving wedges, and at least two driving wedges can contact thedriver to apply the driving force at multiple locations on the driver.For example, a pair of laterally-spaced driving wedges can engage andlift an angled driver such that the driving force is distributed atlaterally-spaced intervals along the length of the driver. Moreover, inat least one instance, the laterally-spaced driving wedges can beequidistant from the center of mass of the angled driver, such that thedriver is mass balanced relative to the multiple driving wedges.

Additionally or alternatively, to stabilize the angled drivers andprevent torqueing and/or rotation of the drivers, and thus, torqueingand/or rotation of the angled staples supported thereon, multipledrivers can be connected and/or linked together. In some instances, anangled multi-staple driver can be integrally formed. Connected driversand/or a multi-staple driver can support multiple staples, which canreduce the number of moving parts within a staple cartridge and canprevent relative movement between the staple supporting surfaces of eachinterconnected and/or integrally formed staple cradle. Moreover, anangled multi-staple driver can be larger, i.e., wider and/or longer,than a single-staple driver. As a result, a multi-staple driver can behave an increased aspect ratio. For example, a multi-staple driver canhave an aspect ratio of 1:1. In certain instances, the aspect ratio maybe 3:2 or 2:1. In still other instances, the aspect ratio can be lessthan 1:1 or more than 2:1, for example. The greater aspect ratio of amulti-staple driver can provide greater stability to the staplessupported thereon.

In various instances, a single driving wedge can engage an angledmulti-staple driver, and, in certain instances, the driving forceexerted on the driver by the driving wedge can be balanced relative tothe center of mass of the driver. In other instances, multiple drivingwedges can engage an angled multi-staple driver, which can distributethe driving force laterally across the driver. In various instances, thecumulative driving force exerted on an angled multi-staple driver bylaterally-spaced driving wedges can be balanced relative to the centerof mass of the driver.

In other circumstances, to stabilize angled staples within a staplecartridge and prevent torqueing and/or rotation thereof duringdeployment, the staples can be fired without drivers. For example, thewedge sled can include a staple-engagement surface that directly engagessled-engagement surfaces of staples in a driverless staple cartridge.The wedge sled can contact each staple at multiple laterally-spacedpositions along the base of the staple. For example, the wedge sled caninclude multiple driving wedges, and at least two driving wedges cancontact the angled staple to apply the driving force at multiplelocations. In various instances, a pair of laterally-spaced drivingwedges can engage and lift the angled staple such that the driving forceis equally distributed at laterally-spaced intervals along the length ofthe base of the staple. Moreover, in at least one instance, thelaterally-spaced driving wedges can be equidistant from the center ofmass of the angled staple, such that the staple is mass balancedrelative to the driving wedges.

An end effector assembly 2000 is disclosed in FIG. 7. As depicted, theend effector assembly 2000 includes a first jaw 2002, a second jaw 2004,a closure tube or frame 2006, and an end effector articulation joint2009. The end effector assembly 2000 is movable between a first or openposition and a second or closed position. As depicted, the first jaw2002 includes pivot pins 2008, which are movably positioned withinclosure slots 2010 of the second jaw 2004. For example, the pivot pins2008 are configured to pivot and translate in the closure slots 2010 ofthe second jaw 2004 as the first jaw 2002 pivots relative to the secondjaw 2004 and relative to the frame 2006 of the depicted end effectorassembly 2000.

In other instances, the first jaw 2002 can be fixed relative to theframe 2006, and the second jaw 2004 can pivot relative to the first jaw2002 to open and close the jaws 2002, 2004 of the end effector assembly2000. In still other instances, both jaws 2002, 2004 can pivot and/orotherwise move to open and/or close the jaws 2002, 2004 of the endeffector assembly 2000. For example, at least one of the jaws 2002, 2004can rotate, spin, slide and/or translate relative to the other jaw 2002,2004 and/or relative to the frame 2006 to open and/or close the jaws2002, 2004 of the end effector assembly 2000.

Referring still to FIG. 7, the end effector assembly 2000 is dimensionedand structured to receive a staple cartridge 2020, which is configuredfor removable positioning within the end effector assembly 2000. Forexample, the depicted staple cartridge 2020 can be a single-use and/ordisposable cartridge, which can be replaced with another staplecartridge after firing the staples 2012 therefrom. The staple cartridge2020 disclosed in FIG. 7 includes a deck 2026, a cartridge body 2024,and a casing 2022 which partially surrounds or encloses the cartridgebody 2024. The depicted staple cartridge 2020 also includes staples 2012which can be ejectably positioned in the cartridge body 2024. Thestaples 2012 disclosed in FIG. 7 are generally “V-shaped” staples, whichhave non-parallelly extending legs.

In various instances, a staple cartridge, such as the staple cartridge2020, for example, can be integrally formed with the end effectorassembly 2000 and/or can be permanently fixed within one of the jaws2002, 2004, for example. In such instances, the end effector assembly2000 can be a single-use and/or disposable end effector. In otherinstances, a staple cartridge that is fixed to the end effector assembly2000 can be reloaded with additional staples for subsequent firings, forexample.

Referring again to the staple cartridge 2020 disclosed in FIG. 7, alongitudinal slot 2032 is defined at least partially though thecartridge body 2024. The depicted longitudinal slot 2032 extends along alongitudinal axis L, which extends between a proximal end 2023 and adistal end 2025 of the cartridge body 2024. The longitudinal slot 2032shown in FIG. 7 extends from the proximal end 2023 toward the distal end2025 and traverses a portion of the length of the cartridge body 2024.

In some instances, the longitudinal slot 2032 can traverse the entirelength of the cartridge body 2024. In other instances, the longitudinalslot 2032 can extend from the distal end 2023 toward the proximal end2025, for example. In still other instances, the cartridge body 2024 maynot include a predefined and/or preformed longitudinal slot. Forexample, a firing member and/or a cutting element can transect and/orcut the cartridge body 2024 during the firing stroke to form a slottherein.

The staple cartridge 2020 disclosed in FIG. 7 is configured to fire anarray 2011 of staples 2012 into tissue. The staple array 2011 shown inFIG. 7 includes angled staples 2012, which are angled relative to thelongitudinal axis L and relative to the firing paths of the drivingwedges 2064 a, 2064 b, which are further described herein. The staplecartridge 2020 disclosed in FIG. 7 also includes multi-staple drivers2040 a, 2040 b, which are further described herein, to drivingly supportthe angled staples 2012 in the array 2011.

The angled staples 2012 are removably positioned in angled staplecavities 2028 which are defined into the cartridge body 2024 disclosedin FIG. 7. For example, the depicted staple cavities 2028 areangularly-oriented relative to the longitudinal axis L. The depictedarrangement of staple cavities 2028 corresponds to the depicted staplearray 2011 positioned in the staple cartridge 2020. Each staple cavity2028 shown in FIG. 7 includes an opening 2030 in the deck 2026, and eachopening 2030 includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a staple axisextending between the proximal end and the distal end. The staple axisof the openings 2030 are skewed and/or angled relative to thelongitudinal axis L of the cartridge body 2024. For example, in thestaple cartridge 2020 of FIG. 7, all the staple cavities 2028 definedinto the cartridge body 2024 are angularly-oriented relative to thelongitudinal axis L and various staple cavities 2028 areangularly-oriented relative to other staple cavities 2028.

The staple cavities 2028 disclosed in FIG. 7 are arranged in multiplerows on each side of the longitudinal slot 2032. For example, a portionof the staple cavities 2028 are arranged in a first inside row 2033, afirst outside row 2035, and a first intermediate row 2037 on a firstside 2027 of the longitudinal slot 2032, and another portion of thestaple cavities 2028 are arranged in a second inside row 2034, a secondoutside row 2038, and a second intermediate row 2036 on a second side2029 of the longitudinal slot 2032. In the staple cartridge 2020depicted in FIG. 7, the staple cavities 2028 and rows 2033, 2034, 2035,2036, 2037, 2038 thereof are symmetrical relative to the longitudinalslot 2032.

Though the depicted staple cavities 2028 do not cross or otherwisecontact each other, the longitudinal rows 2033, 2034, 2035, 2036, 2037,2038 of staple cavities 2028 overlap. For example, various staplecavities 2028 shown in FIG. 7 extend laterally outboard and/or laterallyinboard past the staple cavities 2028 in adjacent rows of staplecavities 2028. Additionally, various depicted staple cavities 2028extend proximally and/or distally past the staple cavities 2028 inadjacent rows of staple cavities 2028. Because the staples 2012 arearranged in an overlapping array 2011, bleeding and/or fluid flow in thestapled tissue can be controlled. An overlapping array of staples, likethe staple array 2011, for example, could be incorporated into otherstaple cartridges and/or end effector assemblies disclosed herein.

In other instances, greater than or fewer than three rows of staplecavities 2028 can be positioned on either side 2027, 2029 of thelongitudinal slot 2032. In some instances, one of the sides 2027, 2029of the staple cartridge 2020 can include a different number of rows ofstaple cavities 2028 than the other side 2027, 2029. In some instances,the staple cavities 2028 may not longitudinally and/or laterally overlapthe staple cavities 2028 in adjacent rows. Additionally oralternatively, in certain instances, the staple cavities 2028 and/orrows thereof can be asymmetrical relative to the longitudinal slot 2032and/or the longitudinal axis L.

Referring still to FIG. 7, the depicted staple cavities 2028 in eachlongitudinal row are parallel or substantially parallel. For example, asdisclosed in FIG. 7, the staple cavities 2028 in the first inside row2033 are parallel to each other, the staple cavities 2028 in the firstoutside row 2035 are parallel to each other, the staple cavities 2028 inthe first intermediate row 2037 are parallel to each other, the staplecavities 2028 in the second inside row 2034 are parallel to each other,the staple cavities 2028 in the second outside row 2036 are parallel toeach other, and the staple cavities 2028 in the second intermediate row2038 are parallel to each other.

As also disclosed in FIG. 7, the staple cavities 2028 in eachlongitudinal row are angularly-oriented relative to the staple cavities2028 in the adjacent longitudinal row(s). For example, on the first side2027 of the depicted cartridge body 2024, the staple cavities 2028 inthe first intermediate row 2037 are angularly-oriented relative to thestaple cavities 2028 in the first inner row 2033 and in the first outerrow 2035. Additionally, on the second side 2029 of the depictedcartridge body 2024, the staple cavities 2028 in the second intermediaterow 2038 are angularly-oriented relative to the staple cavities 2028 inthe second inner row 2034 and the second outer row 2036.

In other instances, only a portion of the staples cavities 2028 in eachlongitudinal row 2033, 2034, 2035, 2036, 2037, 2038 may be parallel toeach other and/or less than all of the longitudinal rows 2033, 2034,2035, 2036, 2037, 2038 can include staple cavities 2028 that areparallel to each other. Additionally or alternatively, in certaininstances, at least a portion of the staple cavities 2028 can berandomly oriented. In some instances, at least one of the staplecavities 2028 in a longitudinal row 2033, 2034, 2035, 2036, 2037, 2038can be parallel to at least one of the staple cavities 2028 in anadjacent longitudinal row 2033, 2034, 2035, 2036, 2037, 2038. In certaininstances, the staple cartridge 2020 can include at least one staplecavity 2028 and/or at least one row of staple cavities that are parallelto the longitudinal axis L of the cartridge body 2024. See, for example,FIG. 10.

The staple cartridge 2020 disclosed in FIG. 7 includes drivers 2040 a,2040 b, which are structured and dimensioned to movably fit within thecartridge body 2024 (FIG. 7). Referring to FIGS. 7-9, the drivers 2040a, 2040 b include first drivers 2040 a (FIGS. 8-8B) and second drivers2040 b (FIGS. 8C-9). The first and second drivers 2040 a, 2040 b areeach configured to support multiple staples 2012. As shown in FIGS. 7-9,the multi-staple first drivers 2040 a have a first geometry and themulti-staple second drivers 2040 b have a second geometry. The geometryof the multi-staple drivers 2040 a, 2040 b corresponds to the array 2011of staples 2012 and to the arrangement of staple cavities 2028 shown inFIG. 7.

As described herein, the arrangement of staples 2012 and staple cavities2028 on the first side 2027 of the longitudinal slot 2032 is a mirrorimage of the arrangement of staples 2012 and staple cavities 2028 on thesecond side 2029 of the longitudinal slot 2032. Additionally, thegeometry of the first drivers 2040 a is a mirror image of the geometryof the second drivers 2040 b. As depicted in FIG. 7, the first drivers2040 a are positioned on a first side 2027 of the longitudinal slot2032, and the second drivers 2040 b are positioned on a second side 2029of the longitudinal slot 2032.

In some instances, the drivers on one side of a cartridge body may notbe a mirror image of the drivers on the other side of the cartridgebody. Additionally, the first multi-staple drivers 2040 a and/or thesecond multi-staple drivers 2040 b can be positioned on different and/orboth sides 2027, 2029 of the longitudinal slot 2032. For example,multi-staple drivers having different geometries can be positioned onthe same side of the longitudinal slot 2032. In still other instances,the staple cartridge 2020 can include multi-staple drivers of three ormore different geometries. For example, a specialized and/or differentstaple driver can correspond to a particular staple and/or group ofstaples. Alternatively, in some instances, all multi-staple drivers inthe staple cartridge 2020 can have the same geometry.

The first and second multi-staple drivers 2040 a, 2040 b disclosed inFIGS. 7-9 include multiple troughs or staple supporting cradles 2042.Moreover, each depicted driver 2040 a, 2040 b is configured to drivemultiple staples 2012. For example, the first drivers 2040 a (FIGS.8-8B) include a first cradle 2042 a, a second cradle 2042 b, and a thirdcradle 2042 c, which are each dimensioned and structured to support onestaple 2012. For example, the base 2014 (FIG. 8B) of a staple 2012 ispositioned in each cradle 2042 a, 2042 b, 2042 c of the first driver2040 a. Additionally, referring primarily to FIGS. 8C-9, the seconddrivers 2040 b also include a first cradle 2042 a, a second cradle 2042b, and a third cradle 2042 c, which are each dimensioned and structuredto support one staple 2012. For example, the base 2014 (FIG. 9) of astaple 2012 is positioned in each cradle 2042 a, 2042 b, 2042 c of thesecond driver 2040 a.

As disclosed in FIG. 7, the first drivers 2040 a are right-side drivers,which are positioned in the right side, or the first side 2027, of thestaple cartridge 2020. The first cradle 2042 a (FIGS. 8-8B) of eachfirst driver 2040 a is configured to be aligned with a staple 2012 inthe first outer row 2035 of staple cavities 2028, the second cradle 2042b (FIGS. 8-8B) of each first driver 2040 a is configured to be alignedwith a staple 2012 in the first intermediate row 2037 of staple cavities2028, and the third cradle 2042 c (FIGS. 8-8B) of each first driver 2040a is configured to be aligned with a staple 2012 in the first inner row2033 of staple cavities 2028.

As further disclosed in the FIG. 7, the second drivers 2040 b areleft-side drivers, which are positioned in the left side, or second side2029, of the staple cartridge 2020. For example, the first cradle 2042 a(FIGS. 8C-9) of each second driver 2040 b is configured to be alignedwith a staple 2012 in the second outer row 2036 of staple cavities 2028,the second cradle 2042 b (FIGS. 8C-9) of each second driver 2040 b isconfigured to be aligned with a staple 2012 in the second intermediaterow 2038 of staple cavities 2028, and the third cradle 2042 c (FIGS.8C-9) of each second driver 2040 b is configured to be aligned with astaple 2012 in the second inner row 2034 of staple cavities 2028.

Each cradle 2042 a, 2042 b, 2042 c disclosed in FIGS. 8-9 is definedinto a step or platform 2045 of the first driver 2040 a or the seconddriver 2040 b. For example, the depicted first drivers 2040 a anddepicted second drivers 2040 b include platforms 2045, and a cradle 2042a, 2042 b, 2042 c is defined into each of the platforms 2045. Theplatforms 2045 disclosed in FIGS. 8-9 of the driver 2040 a, 2040 b arethe same height or elevation, and are configured to hold each staple2012 in the array 2011 at the same height or elevation relative to theother staples 2012 in the array 2011. Referring still to FIGS. 8-9, aconnecting flange 2048 is also disclosed, which extends between thesteps 2045 of each driver 2040 a, 2040 b. The connecting flange 2048 canlimit and/or restrain relative movement between the steps 2045.

In other instances, the steps or platforms 2045 can have differentheights and/or elevations. For example, the height of each step 2045 canbe varied to control the formed height of staples 2012, and thus, thecompression of tissue captured within the formed staples 2012.Additionally or alternatively, the depth of each cradle 2042 a, 2042 b,2042 c can be varied to control the height of the formed staples 2012,and thus, the compression of tissue captured within the formed staples2012.

The first and second drivers 2040 a, 2040 b and the cradles 2042 a, 2042b, 2042 c thereof are oriented in an arrangement that complements thearrangement of staple cavities 2028 and staple array 2011 in the staplecartridge 2020 As disclosed in FIGS. 8A and 8D, each cradle 2042 a, 2042b, 2042 c includes a first end 2044 and a second end 2046, and the firstend 2044 of each cradle 2042 a, 2042 b, 2042 c is distal to the secondend 2046 of the same cradle 2042 a, 2042 b, 2042 c. Additionally, anaxis is defined between the first end 2044 and the second end 2046 ofeach cradle 2042 a, 2042 b, 2042 c. For example, a first axis A_(a) isdefined by the first cradle 2042 a, a second axis A_(b) is defined bythe second cradle 2042 b, and a third axis A_(c) is defined by the thirdcradle 2042 c.

In the depicted arrangement, the orientation of the first axis A_(a) isconfigured to match or correspond to the orientation of the angledstaple 2012 supported by the first cradle 2042 a, the orientation of thesecond axis A_(b) is configured to match or correspond to theorientation of the angled staple 2012 supported by the second cradle2042 b, and the orientation of the third axis A_(c) is configured tomatch or correspond to the orientation of the angled staple 2012supported by the third cradle 2042 c.

As disclosed in FIGS. 8A and 8D, the first axis A_(a) is parallel, orgenerally parallel, to the third axis A_(c). Additionally, the secondaxis A_(b) depicted in FIGS. 8A and 8D traverses both the first axisA_(a) and the third axis A_(c). For example, as disclosed in FIGS. 8Aand 8D, the second axis A_(b) is perpendicular, or generallyperpendicular, to the first axis A_(a) and the third axis A_(c).

In instances where the drivers 2040 a, 2040 b are used in a staplecartridge having a different arrangement of staples 2012 and staplecavities 2028, the relative orientations of the cradles 2042 a, 2042 b,2042 c can be different. In some arrangements, for example, all of theaxes A_(a), A_(b), A_(c) may be parallel. In still other arrangements,for example, all of the axes A_(a), A_(b), A_(c) may cross. In certaininstances, one axis A_(a), A_(b), A_(c) may be perpendicular to at leastone other axis A_(a), A_(b), A_(c). Additionally or alternatively, insome instances, one axis A_(a), A_(b), A_(c) may be parallel to at leastone other axis A_(a), A_(b), A_(c).

Referring primarily to FIGS. 8-8C, the first and second drivers 2040 a,2040 b are integrally formed pieces. For example, each driver 2040 a,2040 b consists of an integrally molded part. In other instances, atleast one step 2045 and/or connecting flange 2048 can be independentlyformed. In such instances, the multiple pieces can be glued, welded,and/or otherwise adhered together, for example, to form a unitary piece.

The multi-staple drivers 2040 a, 2040 b disclosed in FIGS. 7-9 areconfigured to drive staples 2012 from staple cavities 2028 acrossmultiple longitudinal rows 2033, 2034, 2035, 2036, 2037, 2039. In thestaple cartridge 2020 depicted in FIG. 7, the staples 2012 are arrangedin three longitudinal rows on each side of the slot 2032, and thedrivers 2040 a, 2040 b are configured to support and drive staples 2012in each of the three longitudinal rows. For example, each depicted firstdriver 2040 a is configured to drive a staple 2012 positioned in thefirst inner row 2033, a staple 2012 positioned in the first intermediaterow 2037, and a staple 2012 positioned in the first outer row 2035 ofstaple cavities 2028. Additionally, each depicted second driver 2040 bis configured to drive a staple 2012 positioned in the second inner row2034, a staple 2012 positioned in the second intermediate row 2038, anda staple 2012 positioned in the second outer row 2036 of staple cavities2028.

In other instances, the staples 2012 can be arranged in more than threelongitudinal rows or less than three longitudinal rows on each side ofthe slot 2032, and the drivers 2040 a, 2040 b can be configured toengage staples 2012 in each of the longitudinal rows on each side of theslot 2032. For example, the staple cartridge 2020 can have two rows ofstaple cavities 2028 on either side of the longitudinal axis L, and amulti-staple driver positioned therein can include two cradles, whichcan be configured to support a staple in each of the two rows. In someinstances, a multi-staple driver can fire multiple staples 2012 from thesame row of staple cavities 2028. For example, a multi-staple driver canfire adjacent staples 2012 in the same row, such as a more proximalstaple 2012 and a more distal staple 2012, for example. In certaininstances, a multi-staple driver may not engage staples 2012 in everyrow on a side of the longitudinal slot 2032. For example, a separate anddistinct driver may engage staples in one of the rows, such as anoutermost row and/or an innermost row, for example. Additionally oralternatively, in certain instances, the staple cartridge 2020 caninclude at least one multi-staple driver and at least one single-stapledriver. See, for example, FIG. 12.

The end effector assembly 2000 disclosed in FIG. 7 further includes afiring member 2060, which is configured to move relative to thecartridge body 2024. During a firing stroke, the firing member 2060 isconfigured to traverse the cartridge body 2024, and drivingly engage asled 2058 to move the sled 2058 through the cartridge body 2024. Forexample, a portion of the depicted firing member 2060 is dimensioned andpositioned to fit within the longitudinal slot 2032. As disclosed inFIG. 7, the portion of the firing member 2060 that is configured to fitwithin the longitudinal slot 2032 includes a cutting edge 2061, which isconfigured to incise tissue clamped between the first jaw 2002 and thesecond jaw 2004 of the end effector assembly 2000.

The wedge sled 2058 disclosed in FIG. 7 is configured to engage thedrivers 2040 a, 2040 b to lift the drivers 2040 a, 2040 b, and thus,fire the staples 2012 supported thereon, into tissue. In the depictedend effector assembly 2000, an intermediate wedge 2062 of the sled 2058can slide and/or translate within the longitudinal slot 2032, andlaterally positioned driving wedges or driving rails 2064 a, 2064 bdefined on the sled 2058 can engage the staple drivers 2040 a, 2040 b.For example, the sled 2058 shown in FIG. 7 includes driving wedges orrails 2064 a, 2064 b, which are configured to move along firing paths F₁(FIG. 8A) and F₂ (FIG. 8D) during a firing stroke to contact themulti-staple first and second drivers 2040 a, 2040 b that arelongitudinally aligned with the firing paths F₁, F₂.

As disclosed in FIG. 7, the sled 2058 includes a driving wedge 2064 a,2064 b on either side of the central portion 2062. The driving wedge2064 a on the first side 2027 of the staple cartridge 2020 is configuredto move along the first firing path F₁ (FIG. 8A), and the driving wedge2064 b on the second side 2029 of the staple cartridge 2020 isconfigured to move along the second firing path F₂ (FIG. 8D).

Each driving wedge 2064 a, 2064 b disclosed in FIG. 7 is configured toengage one of the multi-staple drivers 2040 a, 2040 b to lift thedrivers 2040 a, 2040 b within the staple cavities 2028 and eject thestaples 2012 from the cartridge body 2024. In the depicted arrangement,the three steps 2045 of each first driver 2040 a remain fixed relativeto each other, and the three steps 2045 of each second driver 2040 bremain fixed relative to each other. In other words, the steps 2045 of asingle driver 2040 a, 2040 b do not move and/or rotate relative to eachother. Because the steps 2045 of a single driver 2040 a, 2040 b do notmove and/or rotate relative to each other, relative movement of thestaples 2012 supported by each driver 2040 a, 2040 b is also restrained.Additionally, each driver 2040 a, 2040 b has a larger base or footprintwithin the cartridge body 2042, which can further reduce rotation and/ortorqueing of the drivers 2040 a, 2040 b. As a result, shifting and/ortilting of the staples 2012 during deployment may be prevented,minimized and/or controlled by the multi-staple drivers 2040 a, 2040 b.Multi-staple drivers, like the drivers 2040 a, 2040 b, for example,could be incorporated into other staple cartridge and/or end effectorassemblies disclosed herein.

In various instances, the driving wedges 2064 a, 2064 b of the sled 2058can be dimensioned, structured and positioned to engage a drivingsurface of the drivers 2040 a, 2040 b, respectively. For example, thedrivers 2040 a, 2040 b can include a ramped surface and/or track, whichis configured to guide and/or receive a portion of a driving wedge 2064a, 2064 b, respectively, as the firing member 2060 and the sled 2058move through the staple cartridge 2020.

The relative placement of the driving wedges 2064 a, 2064 b, and theircorresponding firing paths F₁, F₂, respectively, to the drivers 2040 a,2040 b and the staples 2012 supported by the drivers 2040 a, 2040 b maybe selected to prevent, reduce, and/or control torqueing of the drivers2040 a, 2040 b and/or the staples 2012 during firing. For example, thegeometry and/or material of the drivers 2040 a, 2040 b can be selectedto place the center of mass (COM) of each driver 2040 a, 2040 b intoalignment with the corresponding firing path F₁, F₂, respectively.Additionally or alternatively, the driving wedges 2064 a, 2064 b, andthus the firing paths F₁, F₂, respectively, can be positioned within thecartridge 2020 to extend through the center of mass (COM) of the drivers2040 a, 2040 b, respectively.

In other instances, as further described herein, the sled 2058 caninclude more than one driving wedge 2064 a, 2064 b on each side of theintermediate portion 2062. For example, multiple driving wedges 2064 a,2064 b can move through either side 2027, 2029 of the cartridge body2024. Additionally or alternatively, the driving wedges 2064 a, 2064 bof the wedge sled 2058 can be configured to directly engage and drivethe staples 2012, as further described herein.

Referring primarily to FIGS. 8A and 8D, the first and second drivers2040 a, 2040 b overlie the firing paths F₁, F₂, respectively, of thedriving wedges 2064 a, 2064 b, respectively. For example, the firstdriver 2040 a overlies the first firing path F₁ and the second driver2040 b overlies the second firing path F₂. Moreover, various portions ofeach driver 2040 a, 2040 b are positioned on either side of therespective driving wedge 2064 a, 2064 b, and thus, on either side of thefiring paths F₁, F₂. Referring still to FIGS. 8A and 8D, the depicteddrivers 2040 a, 2040 b are dimensioned and structured such that thecenter of mass (COM) of each driver 2040 a, 2040 b overlaps thecorresponding firing path F₁, F₂ of the driving wedge 2064 a, 2064 b,respectively, for example. In other words, each depicted driver 2040 a,2040 b is mass balanced relative to the corresponding firing path F₁,F₂.

For example, as disclosed in FIG. 8A, a first portion 2047 of the firstdriver 2040 a is positioned on a first side of the firing path F₁, and asecond portion 2049 of the first driver 2040 a is positioned on a secondside of the firing path F₁. The first portion 2047 of the first driver2040 a has a first mass m₁ and the second portion 2049 of the firstdriver 2040 a has a mass m₂, which equals, or substantially equals, thefirst mass m₁. Additionally, as disclosed in FIG. 8D, a first portion2047 of the second driver 2040 b is positioned on a first side of thefiring path F₂, and a second portion 2049 of the second driver 2040 b ispositioned on a second side of the firing path F₂. The first portion2047 of the second driver 2040 b has a first mass m₁ and the secondportion 2049 of the second driver 2040 b has a mass m₂, which equals orsubstantially equals the first mass m₁. Because the drivers 2040 a, 2040b are mass balanced relative to the respective firing paths F₁, F₂,torqueing of the drivers 2040 a, 2040 b and the staples 2012 supportedthereon during firing can be minimized and/or otherwise controlled.Additionally, the group of staples 2012 deployed by each driver 2040 a,2040 b can be synchronously lifted relative to the cartridge body 2024and simultaneously driven or fired into tissue. Mass balanced drivers,like the drivers 2040 a, 2040 b, for example, could be incorporated intoother embodiments disclosed herein.

Additionally, as disclosed in FIGS. 8-9, at least one cutout 2050 isdefined into the first and second multi-staple drivers 2040 a, 2040 b.For example, various cutouts 2050 are defined into the connecting flange2048 of the drivers 2040 a, 2040 b. The cutouts 2050 are dimensioned andpositioned to adjust the mass of the drivers 2040 a, 2040 b, and balancethe center of mass (COM) of each driver 2040 a, 2040 b relative to thecorresponding firing path F₁, F₂. Additionally, the cutouts 2050 aredimensioned and positioned to accommodate for the geometry of the staplecavities 2028, in which the drivers 2040 a, 2040 b are movablypositioned.

In certain instances, multiple staple cavities can be defined into astaple cartridge, at least one staple cavity can be parallel to thelongitudinal axis of the staple cartridge, and at least one staplecavity can be angularly-oriented relative to the longitudinal axis ofthe staple cartridge. Referring to the staple cartridge 2120 depicted inFIG. 10, for example, multiple staple cavities 2128 are defined into thestaple cartridge 2120, and multiple staple cavities 2128 are parallel tothe longitudinal axis L of the staple cartridge 2120.

In the depicted staple cartridge 2120, a longitudinal slot 2032 isdefined partially through the cartridge body 2124. Also defined in thecartridge body 2124 is a row of staple cavities 2128 on either side ofthe longitudinal slot 2032 which includes staple cavities 2128 that areoriented parallel to the longitudinal axis L. In the depicted staplecartridge 2120, a first row 2137 of staple cavities 2128 and a secondrow 2138 of staple cavities 2128 are adjacent to the longitudinal slot2032, and the staple cavities 2128 in the first row 2137 and in thesecond row 2138 are oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis L. Forexample, as disclosed in FIG. 10, the staple cavities 2128 in the firstrow 2137 are aligned with an axis A_(b), which is parallel to thelongitudinal axis L.

The staple cartridge 2120 disclosed in FIG. 10 includes additional rowsof staple cavities 2128. For example, the depicted staple cartridge 2120includes a third row 2135 of staple cavities 2128 and a fourth row 2136of staple cavities 2128, which include staple cavities 2128 that areangularly-oriented relative to the longitudinal axis L. In suchinstances, the staple cavities 2128 in the third and fourth rows 2135,2136 are also angularly-oriented relative to the staple cavities 2128 inthe first and second rows 2137, 2138 and are also angularly-orientedrelative to each other. For example, a staple cavity 2128 in the thirdrow 2135 is aligned with an axis A_(a), which traverses the longitudinalaxis L and traverses the axis A_(b) of the first row 2137 of staplecavities 2128. As further disclosed in FIG. 10, the staple cavities 2128in the fourth row 2136 extend along an axis that traverses the axisA_(a) of a staple cavity 2128 in the third row 2135. The first and thirdrows 2137, 2135 of staple cavities 2128 are positioned on a first side2127 of the depicted cartridge body 2124, and the second and fourth rows2136, 2138 are positioned on a second side 2129 of the depictedcartridge body 2124.

In various instances, the staple cartridge 2120 disclosed in FIG. 10 canbe used with the end effector assembly 2000 depicted in FIG. 7. Forexample, the staple cartridge 2120 can be loaded into the elongatechannel of the second jaw 2004 of the end effector assembly 2000. Thestaple cartridge 2120 can be fired with single-staple drivers,multi-staple drivers, and/or a combination thereof. For example, amulti-staple driver may be configured to fire staples from the staplecavities 2128 in the first and third rows 2137, 2135 on the first side2127 of the cartridge body 2124, and another multi-staple driver can beconfigured to fire staples from the staple cavities 2128 in the secondand fourth rows 2136, 2138 on the second side 2129 of the cartridge body2124. In various instances, the drivers can be positioned within thecartridge body 2124 such that the cradles of the drivers are alignedwith the staples positioned in the staple cavities 2128. In suchinstances, the drivers and/or the staples supported thereon can be massbalanced relative to the firing path(s) of a sled, such as the sled 2058(FIG. 7), for example, which can be configured to traverse the cartridgebody 2124 and engage the drivers therein.

In other instances, the staple cartridge 2120 may not include drivers.For example, a firing member and/or sled, such as the firing member 2060and/or the sled 2058 (FIG. 7), for example, can be configured todirectly contact, engage, and/or drive the staples movably positioned inthe staple cavities 2128. In such instances, the staples can be massbalanced relative to the firing path(s) of the sled 2058. In still otherinstances, the staples can be held in position within the cartridge body2124, and can be crushed and/or otherwise deformed within the cartridgebody 2124, for example.

In various instances, a multi-staple driver can be balanced relative tomultiple driving wedges that concurrently engage and cooperatively liftthe driver during deployment. For example, multi-staple drivers 2240 anda pair of driving wedges 2264 a, 2264 b are depicted in FIG. 11. Themulti-staple drivers 2240 are configured for use with the staplecartridge 2020, for example. Additionally or alternatively, the drivers2240 can be used with various other staple cartridges having a staplearray that matches the array 2011 (FIG. 7) and corresponds to thearrangement of drivers 2240 shown in FIG. 11.

In various instances, a staple that is fired from the staple cartridge2120 can be formed to a variable formed height. For example, the staplecan have a greater height between one of the staple legs and the basethan between the other staple leg and the base. In such instances, thestaple can exert a greater compressive force on tissue at the shorterend of the staple. As described in greater detail herein, the height ofa staple can be varied when the staple driver comprises a step or heightdifferential (see, for example, FIG. 79), and/or when the staple formingpockets in the anvil comprise a step or height differential (see, forexample, FIG. 80).

When an angled staple is deformed to a variable height, the compressiveforce exerted on the tissue by the angled staple can vary longitudinallyand laterally. In certain instances, for example, it can be desirable tocompress tissue closer to the cutline, i.e., laterally inboard, morethan tissue farther from the cutline, i.e., laterally outboard. In suchinstances, the lateral tissue variation afforded by an angled staplethat has been deformed to different compressed heights can exert agreater compressive force on a laterally inboard portion of tissue and areduced compressive force on a laterally outboard portion of tissue.

Referring again to FIG. 10, in certain instances, the staples ejectedfrom the third row 2135 of staple cavities 2128 and from the fourth row2136 of staple cavities 2128 can be deformed to variable heights. Forexample, the staples can have a reduced height closer to thelongitudinal axis L, and a greater height farther from the longitudinalaxis L. Additionally or alternatively, the staples ejected from thefirst row 2137 of staple cavities 2128 and from the second row of staplecavities 2138 can be deformed to a uniform height, which can be lessthan the reduced, or smaller height, of the staples ejected from thethird row 2135 and the fourth row 2136 of staple cavities 2128. In suchinstances, the compressive force exerted on the tissue can be greatestcloser to the cutline, and can gradually decrease farther outboardtoward the lateral sides of the staple line.

Each driver 2240 disclosed in FIG. 11 includes multiple troughs orstaple supporting cradles 2242 a, 2242 b, 2242 c. For example, eachdriver 2240 includes a first cradle 2242 a, a second cradle 2242 b, anda third cradle 2242 c, which are each dimensioned and structured tosupport one staple, such as one of the staples 2012 (FIG. 7). Forexample, the base of a staple can be positioned in each cradle 2242 a,2242 b, 2242 c. Referring again to the staple cartridge 2020 depicted inFIG. 7, the first cradle 2242 a can be aligned with a staple 2012 in thefirst outer row 2035 of staple cavities 2028, the second cradle 2242 bcan be aligned with a staple 2012 in the first intermediate row 2037 ofstaple cavities 2028, and the third cradle 2242 c can be aligned with astaple 2012 in the first inner row 2033 of staple cavities 2028. In suchinstances, the first cradle 2242 a corresponds to an outer cradle, thesecond cradle 2242 b corresponds to an intermediate cradle, and thethird cradle 2242 c corresponds to an inner cradle. In variousinstances, another driver arrangement can be positioned on the oppositeside of the staple cartridge, and the other driver arrangement can bethe mirror image reflection of the driver arrangement depicted in FIG.11.

The cradles 2242 a, 2242 b, 2242 c depicted in FIG. 11 are defined intoa support member 2248. The support member 2248 can support staplesacross multiple rows of staple cavities. Additionally, the supportmember 2248 can support staples 2012 oriented at varying angles relativeto the longitudinal axis L of the staple cartridge, and/or relative tothe longitudinal firing paths of the driving wedges 2264 a, 2264 b, forexample. Referring to the depicted support member 2248, the supportmember 2248 is angularly-oriented relative to the firing paths of thedriving wedges 2264 a, 2264 b. Additionally, the support member 2248 isangularly-oriented relative to at least one of the cradles 2242 a, 2242b, 2242 c defined therein. For example, the intermediate cradle 2242 bdisclosed in FIG. 11 is angularly-oriented relative to the supportmember 2248. Moreover, as disclosed in FIG. 11, the outer cradle 2242 cand the inner cradle 2242 a are aligned with the support member 2248.

In certain instances, the height of the support member 2248 can beuniform, or generally uniform, such that each staple supported by thesupport member 2248 is positioned at the same height or elevation. Inother instances, the support member 2248 can include steps havingdifferent heights and/or elevations. For example, the height of a stepcan be varied to control the height of the formed staples, and thus, thecompression of tissue captured within the formed staples. Additionallyor alternatively, the depth of each cradle 2242 a, 2242 b, 2242 b can bevaried to control the height of the formed staples, and thus, thecompression of tissue captured within the formed staples.

Each cradle 2242 a, 2242 b, 2242 c disclosed in FIG. 11 includes a firstend 2244 and a second end 2246. The first end 2244 of each cradle 2242a, 2242 b, 2242 c is distal to the second end 2246 of the same cradle2242 a, 2242 b, 2242 c. Additionally, an axis is defined between thefirst end 2244 and the second end 2246 of each cradle 2242 a, 2242 b,2242 c. For example, a first axis A_(a) is defined by the first cradle2242 a and the third cradle 2242 c, and a second axis A_(b) is definedby the second cradle 2242 b. As depicted in FIG. 11, the second axisA_(b) traverses the first axes A_(a). In certain instances, the secondaxis A_(b) can be perpendicular, or generally perpendicular, to thefirst axis A_(a).

Referring still to FIG. 11, the multi-staple drivers 2240 include rails2245 a, 2045 b, which are connected to the support member 2248. Therails 2245 a, 2245 b are positioned to engage the driving wedges 2264 a,2264 b of a wedge sled. For example, the depicted rails 2245 a, 2245 bare aligned with the firing paths F₁, F₂ of the driving wedges 2264 a,2264 b. In such instances, the rails 2245 a, 2245 b can provide anelongated surface area for receiving the driving force from the drivingwedges and for stabilizing the multi-staple drivers 2240 when thedriving wedges 2264 a, 2264 b drivingly engage the rails 2245 a, 2245 b.

The drivers 2240 can include multiple independently formed parts, whichcan be glued, welded, and/or otherwise adhered together. For example,the support member 2248 can be joined together with the rails 2245 a,2245 b to form the driver 2240. In other instances, each driver 2240 canbe an integrally molded part, which includes the support member 2248 andthe rails 2245 a, 2245 b.

The drivers 2240 that are disclosed in FIG. 11 overlie the firing pathsF₁, F₂ of the driving wedges 2264 a, 2264 b. Moreover, various portionsof each depicted driver 2240 are positioned on either side of the wedges2264 a, 2264 b. As shown in FIG. 11, the drivers 2240 are dimensionedand structured such that the center of mass (COM) of each driver 2240 isequidistant from the drive axes, e.g., equidistant from the firing pathsF₁, F₂ of the driving wedges 2264 a, 2264 b. For example, the firingpaths F₁, F₂, depicted in FIG. 11, are separated by a width w, and thecenter of mass of each driver 2240 is positioned between the firingpaths F₁, F₂. As shown in FIG. 11, the center of mass of each driver2240 is laterally offset from the first firing path F₁ by a width w/2and laterally offset from the second firing path F₂ by a width w/2. As aresult, each depicted driver 2240 is mass balanced relative to thefiring paths F₁, F₂. Because the drivers 2240 are mass balanced relativeto the firing paths F₁, F₂, torqueing of the drivers 2240 and staplesduring deployment may be prevented, minimized and/or otherwisecontrolled. Mass balanced drivers, like the drivers 2240, for example,could be incorporated into other staple cartridges and end effectorassemblies disclosed herein.

In other instances, the firing member can include a single driving wedgealigned with the drivers 2240, and the drivers 2240 can be mass balancedrelative to the driving wedge. For example, the driving wedge can definea firing path that extends through the center of mass (COM) of eachdriver 2240. In such instances, the driving wedge may have a greaterwidth to increase the stability of the drivers 2240. In other instances,the firing member can include three or more driving wedges, and thecumulative drive force exerted by the driving wedges can be balancedrelative to the geometry of the driver 2240.

Each rail 2245 a, 2245 b disclosed in FIG. 11 is aligned with one of thefiring paths F₁, F₂. Specifically, the first rail 2245 a is aligned withthe first firing path F₁, and the second rail 2245 b is aligned with thesecond firing path F₂. The driving wedges 2264 a, 2264 b are configuredto contact the rails 2245 a, 2245 b to lift the drivers 2240 and thestaples supported thereon. Referring still to FIG. 11, the depicteddriving wedges 2264 a, 2264 b are longitudinally staggered by a distancex. For example, the first wedge 2264 a trails the second wedge 2264 b bythe distance x indicated in FIG. 11. Additionally, the first rail 2245 ais longitudinally staggered relative to the second rail 2245 b. Forexample, the second rail 2245 b is distally offset from the first rail2245 a by the distance y indicated in FIG. 11. In the arrangementdisclosed in FIG. 11, the distance x equal, or substantially equals, thedistance y, such that driving wedges 2264 a, 2264 b simultaneouslycontact and drive the rails 2245 a, 2245 b, respectively, during afiring stroke.

Because the driving wedges 2264 a, 2264 b disclosed in FIG. 11simultaneously engage and drivingly lift the rails 2245 a, 2245 b,respectively, on either side of the center of mass (COM) of the driver2240 and equidistant therefrom, the cumulative driving force is balancedthroughout the entire deployment of the driver 2240. As a result,torqueing and/or rotation of the driver 2240, and thus of the staplessupported thereon, may be prevented, minimized, and/or controlled.Longitudinally offset driving wedges, like the driving wedges 2264 a,2264 b, for example, could be incorporated into other embodimentsdisclosed herein.

An arrangement of multi-staple drivers 2340 a and single-staple drivers2340 b is disclosed in FIG. 12. Because the arrangement of drivers 2340a, 2340 b corresponds to the array 2011 of staples 2012 depicted in FIG.7, the drivers 2340 a, 2340 b can be used with the staple cartridge 2020(FIG. 7). Additionally or alternatively, the drivers 2340 a, 2340 b canbe used with various other staple cartridges having a staple array thatcorresponds to the arrangement of drivers 2340 a, 2340 b depicted inFIG. 12.

The drivers 2340 a, 2340 b include multiple troughs or staple supportingcradles 2342 a, 2342 b, 2342 c. For example, the multi-staple drivers2340 a include a first cradle 2342 a and a second cradle 2342 b, whichare each dimensioned and structured to support a staple, such as two ofthe staples 2012 shown in FIG. 7. Additionally, the single-stapledrivers 2340 b include a third cradle 2342 c, which is dimensioned andstructured to support another staple, such as another of the staples2012 shown in FIG. 7. For example, the base of a staple 2012 can residein each cradle 2342 a, 2342 b, 2342 c.

Referring again to the staple cartridge 2020 depicted in FIG. 7, thefirst cradle 2342 a can be aligned with a staple 2012 in the first outerrow 2035 of staple cavities 2028, the second cradle 2342 b can bealigned with a staple 2012 in the intermediate row 2037 of staplecavities 2028, and the third cradle 2342 c can be aligned with a staple2012 in the inner row 2033 of staple cavities 2028. In such instances,the first cradle 2342 a corresponds to an outer cradle, the secondcradle 2342 b corresponds to an intermediate cradle, and the thirdcradle 2342 c corresponds to an inner cradle. Additionally, anotherdriver arrangement can be positioned on the opposite side of the staplecartridge 2020, which can be the mirror image of the driver arrangementdisclosed in FIG. 12.

Referring still to FIG. 12, each cradle 2342 a, 2342 b, 2342 c isdefined into a step and/or support portion 2345. Additionally, each ofthe drivers 2340 a, 2340 b includes a base 2348, 2349, respectively. Thebase 2348 of each multi-staple driver 2340 a extends between the steps2345 of the driver 2340 a. Additionally, the base 2349 of eachsingle-staple driver 2340 b extends from the step 2345 thereof.

As disclosed in FIG. 12, each driver 2340 a, 2340 b is aligned with afiring path F₁, F₂ within a staple cartridge. Specifically, each firstdriver 2340 a is aligned with the first firing path F₁, and each seconddriver 2340 b is aligned with the second firing path F₂. The depicteddriving wedges 2364 a, 2364 b are configured to move along the firingpaths F₁, F₂ during a firing stroke. Additionally, the driving wedges2364 a, 2364 b contact the drivers 2340 a, 2340 b, respectively, to liftthe drivers 2240 a, 2340 b and the staples supported thereon.

The bases 2348, 2349 can act as counterweights to adjust and/or controlthe center of mass of the drivers 2340 a, 2340 b. For example, thegeometry and material of each base 2348, 2349 can be selected tomaintain and/or shift the center of mass of each driver 2340 a, 2340 binto alignment with the corresponding firing path F₁, F₂. As depicted inFIG. 12, the first bases 2348 include at least one cutout 2350. Thedimensions, placement, and geometry of the cutouts 2350 are selected tomass balance the first drivers 2340 a relative to the first firing pathF₁. For example, each first base 2348 can be configured to shift ormaintain the center of mass of the multi-staple driver 2340 a intoalignment with the first firing path F₁, and each second base 2349 canbe configured to shift the center of mass of the single-staple driver2340 b into alignment with the second firing path F₂.

Additionally, the bases 2348, 2349 provide an elongated surface area forstabilizing the drivers 2340 when the driving wedges 2364 a, 2364 bdrivingly engage the drivers 2340 a, 2340 b. For example, the largerfootprint of the drivers 2340 a, 2340 b may promote stability andprevent torqueing and/or rotation of the drivers 2340 a, 2340 b duringdeployment. Moreover, because the bases 2348, 2349 provide a largersurface area, the driving force can be distributed to promote a balanceddriver and staple deployment. Drivers having elongated surface areas,such as the bases 2348, 2349,

for example, could be incorporated into other embodiments disclosedherein.

Referring still to FIG. 12, the depicted driving wedges 2364 a, 2364 bare longitudinally staggered by a distance x. For example, the firstwedge 2364 a trails the second wedge 2364 b by the distance x. Asfurther depicted in FIG. 12, the depicted drivers 2340 a, 2340 b arelongitudinally staggered by a distance y. In the depicted arrangement,the distance x is different than the distance y, such that the drivingwedges 2364 a, 2364 b do not contact the drivers 2340 a, 2340simultaneously. For example, in the depicted arrangement, the firstwedge 2364 a contacts the first driver 2340 a before the second wedge2364 b contacts the second driver 2340 b. In such instances, deploymentof the first driver 2340 a, and thus movement of the first cradle 2342 aand the second cradle 2342 c, is initiated before deployment of thesecond staple 2340 b, and thus movement of the third cradle 2342 c. As aresult, the staples aligned with the first driver 2340 a are firedbefore the staples aligned with the second driver 2340 b.

In certain instances, it is desirable to fire a staple or a group ofstaples before firing another staple or group of staples. For example,to control bleeding and/or fluid flow within the stapled tissue, staplespositioned further inboard, such as the staples adjacent to thelongitudinal slot, and thus, adjacent to the cut line, may be firedbefore staples further outboard.

In other instances, the staples aligned with the second driver 2340 bcan be fired before the staples aligned with the first driver 2340 a.Alternatively, the first driver 2340 a and the second driver 2340 b canbe fired simultaneously, such that the three staples supported byadjacent multi-staple and single staple drivers 2340 a, 2340 b pierceand capture tissue simultaneously.

An arrangement of dual-staple drivers 2440 is depicted in FIG. 13. Asarranged in FIG. 13, the dual-staple drivers 2440 are configured to firestaples from a staple cartridge that has four adjacent rows of staplecavities. For example, the driver arrangement depicted in FIG. 13 can beconfigured to fire staples from four rows of staple cavities on one sideof a longitudinal slot in a cartridge body, and a corresponding mirrorimage driver arrangement can be configured to fire staples from fourrows of staple cavities on the other side of the longitudinal slot.

In other instances, a single row of dual-staple drivers 2440 can bepositioned on a first side of the a staple cartridge, and a single rowof dual-staple drivers 2440 can be positioned on a second, opposite sideof the staple cartridge. In such instances, the dual-staple drivers 2440can be arranged to fire staples from two adjacent rows of staplecavities on either side of a cut line. In other instances, rows ofdual-staple drivers 2440 can be added to the arrangement shown in FIG.13. For example, the dual-staple drivers can be arranged to fire staplesfrom six or more adjacent rows of staple cavities.

The dual-staple drivers 2440 depicted in FIG. 13 include a pair oftroughs or staple supporting cradles 2442 a, 2442 b. For example, eachdual-staple drivers 2440 includes a first cradle 2442 a and a secondcradle 2442 b, which are dimensioned and structured to support a staple,such as one of the staples 2012 (FIG. 7). For example, the base of astaple can be positioned in each cradle 2442 a, 2442 b.

The first cradle 2442 a of one of the dual-staple drivers 2440 can bealigned with a staple in a row of staple cavities, and the second cradle2442 b of the same dual-staple driver 2440 can be aligned with a staplein another row of staple cavities. Additionally, the first cradle 2442 aof another dual-staple driver 2440 can be aligned with a staple inanother row of staple cavities, and the second cradle 2442 b of thatdual-staple driver 2440 can be aligned with a staple in yet another rowof staple cavities.

Referring still to FIG. 13, each dual-staple driver 2440 includes stepsand/or support portions 2445, and each cradle 2442 a, 2442 b is definedinto one of the steps 2445. Additionally, each of the drivers 2440includes a base or connecting flange 2448 that extends between the steps2445 of the dual-staple driver 2440. Because the steps 2445 areconnected by the connecting flange 2448, the cradles 2442 a, 2442 b arelinked such that coordinated and/or synchronized staple deployment canbe initiated by the dual-staple driver 2440.

The steps 2445 of the drivers 2440 can be the same height.Alternatively, in some instances, a driver 2440 can include steps ofdifferent heights. In still other instances, different drivers 2440 canhave steps of different heights, for example.

As disclosed in FIG. 13, each dual-staple driver 2440 overlies a pair offiring paths. Specifically, one of the drivers 2440 overlies the firstand second firing paths F₁, F₂, and another of the drivers 2440 overliesthe third and fourth firing paths F₃, F₄. Multiple driving wedges 2464a, 2464 b, 2464 b, 2464 d are also depicted in FIG. 13. As shown in FIG.13, the driving wedges 2464 a, 2464 b, 2464 c, 2464 d are configured tocontact the dual-staple drivers 2440 to lift the dual-staple drivers2240 and the staples positioned thereon.

Referring still to FIG. 13, each step 2445 includes a center of mass(COM). Additionally, each of the firing paths F₁, F₂, F₃, F₄ is alignedwith a center of mass of a step 2045. As a result, each step 2445 ismass balanced relative to the corresponding firing paths F₁, F₂, F₃, F₄.

In various instances, the base 2448 extending between the steps 2445 canalso be mass balanced relative to the respective firing paths F₁, F₂,F₃, F₄, such that the base 2448 maintains the mass balance of thedual-staple driver 2440. In some

instances, the base 2448 can contribute an insignificant and/ornegligible shift and/or variation to the mass balance of the dual-stapledriver 2440. In such instances, the mass balance of the drivers 2240 canbe approximated by the mass balance of the steps 2445 thereof, forexample.

Referring still to FIG. 13, the depicted driving wedges 2464 a, 2464 bare longitudinally staggered by a distance x. For example, the firstwedge 2464 a trails the second wedge 2464 b by the distance x.Additionally, the center of mass (COM) of the steps 2445 of eachdual-staple driver 2440 are longitudinally staggered by the distance x.In such instances, the driving wedges 2464 a, 2464 b can move intoengagement with the driver 2440 simultaneously. Because the wedges 2464a, 2464 c contact each driver 2444 simultaneously, deployment of thepair of staples supported by each driver 2440 can be synchronized, andthe staples can be simultaneously driven or fired into tissue.Longitudinally staggered wedges, like the wedges 2464 a, 2464 b, forexample, could be incorporated into other embodiments disclosed herein.

In various instances, the geometry of a driving wedge can be selected,in combination with an arrangement of staples and drivers within astaple cartridge, to balance the forces exerted upon the staples anddrivers during deployment. Additionally, in certain instances, thegeometry of the driving wedge can be selected to coordinate thedeployment of staples.

For example, a driver can include staggered and/or longitudinally offsetdriving wedges, which can be configured to simultaneously engage anangularly-oriented staple and/or an angularly-oriented driver within thestaple cartridge. For example, staggered driving wedges can move intoengagement with a first or proximal end of a driver and a second ordistal end of the same driver at the same time. Because both ends of theangled driver are engaged by the staggered wedges simultaneously, thestaggered driving wedges concurrently lift the driver. As a result,torqueing and/or rotation of the driver during deployment, and thus thestaple supported thereon, may be prevented, limited, and/or controlled.

In other driverless embodiments, further described herein, staggereddriving wedges can move into engagement with a first or proximal end ofan angled staple and a second or distal end of the same angled staple atthe same time. Because both ends of the angled staple are engaged by thestaggered wedges simultaneously, the staggered driving wedgesconcurrently lift the staple. As a result, torqueing and/or rotation ofthe staple during deployment may be prevented, limited, and/orcontrolled.

Additionally or alternatively, the geometry of a driver can define atleast one firing path that is aligned with non-angularly-orientedstaples and/or drivers within the staple cartridge. For example, thefiring path can be collinear with the axes of various drivers andstaples that are oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of thestaple cartridge. Because the firing path is collinear with the stapleand/or driver axis, the staple and/or driver can be balanced relative tothe driving wedge, and torqueing and/or rotation of the driver and/orthe staple can be prevented, limited, and/or controlled.

An arrangement of drivers 2540, staples 2512 a, 2512 b, and drivingwedges 2564 a, 2564 b, 2564 c of a wedge sled 2558 is depicted in FIGS.14 and 15. The driving wedges 2564 a, 2564 b, 2564 c disclosed in FIGS.14 and 15 are configured to move along the firing paths F₁, F₂, and F₃(FIG. 14), respectively, which extend through a staple cartridge. Invarious instances, the arrangement of drivers 2540 can be utilized in astaple cartridge having an arrangement of staples 2512 a, 2512 b andstaple cavities that corresponds to the depicted driver arrangement.

As disclosed in FIG. 14, the drivers 2540 and the staples 2512 a, 2512 bare arranged in multiple rows 2534, 2536. Additionally, various drivers2540 and staples 2512 a in each row are oriented parallel to alongitudinal axis L, and various drivers 2540 and staples 2512 b in eachrow are oriented at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis L. Forexample, the depicted arrangement includes a pair of longitudinal rows2534, 2536, and the drivers 2540 and staples 2512 a, 2512 b in each row2534, 2536 alternate between a parallel orientation and an angledorientation relative to the longitudinal axis L. For example, thedrivers 2540 shown in the first row 2534 include a first driver 2540 aangularly-oriented relative to the longitudinal axis L, a second driver2540 b oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis L, a third driver 2540c angularly-oriented relative to the longitudinal axis L, and a fourthdriver 2540 d oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis L.

As disclosed in FIG. 14, the second driver 2540 b and the fourth driver2540 d of the first row 2534 are aligned with the first firing path F₁.More particularly, both the proximal ends 2546 and the distal ends 2544of the second and fourth drivers 2540 b, 2540 d are aligned with thefirst firing path F₁. In such instances, the first firing path F₁extends through the center of masses (COM) of the second driver 2540 band the fourth driver 2540 d. Because the first firing path F₁ isaligned with the second and fourth drivers 2540 b, 2540 d, the secondand fourth drivers 2540 b, 2540 d are mass balanced relative to thefirst firing path F₁ and torqueing and/or rotation of the second andfourth drivers 2540 b, 2540 d shown in FIG. 14, and thus the staplessupported thereon, may be prevented, limited, and/or controlled.

As disclosed in FIG. 14, the first driver 2540 a is aligned with an axisA, which traverses the longitudinal axis L and the firing paths F₁, F₂,and F₃. Additionally, the third driver 2540 c is oriented parallel tothe axis A. As depicted in FIG. 14, the first and third drivers 2540 a,2540 c are oriented at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis L andoverlie multiple firing paths. For example, the depicted first and thirddrivers 2540 a, 2540 c overlie the first and second firing paths F₁, F₂.As depicted in FIG. 14, the first firing path F₁ extends through theproximal ends 2546 of the first and third drivers 2540 a, 2540 c, andthe second firing path F₂ extends through the distal ends 2544 of thefirst and third drivers 2540 a, 2540 c.

The center of masses (COM) of the first and second drivers 2540 a, 2540c are intermediate the first firing path F₁ and the second firing pathF₂. For example, the center of masses of the first and second drivers2540 a, 2540 c are equidistant from the first firing path F₁ and thesecond firing path F₂, and thus, the drivers 2540 a, 2540 c are massbalanced relative to the first and second firing paths F₁, F₂. As aresult, torqueing and/or rotation of the second and fourth drivers 2540b, 2540 d shown in FIG. 14, and thus the staples supported thereon, maybe prevented, limited, and/or controlled.

Additionally, the driving wedges 2564 a, 2564 c, 2564 c shown in FIGS.14 and 15 are longitudinally staggered. For example, the first drivingwedge 2564 a distally trails the second driving wedge 2564 b by adistance x and the second driving wedge 2564 b distally trails the thirddriving wedge 2564 c by the distance x. As depicted in FIG. 14, theproximal end 2546 and the distal end 2544 of the angularly-orientedthird driver 2540 c are offset by a longitudinal distance y. In thearrangement depicted in FIGS. 14 and 15, the longitudinal distance ybetween the proximal end 2546 and the distal end 2544 of third driver2540 c equals the longitudinal distance x between the first drivingwedge 2564 a, which is aligned with the proximal end 2546 of the thirddriver 2540 c, and the second driving wedge 2564 b, which is alignedwith the distal end 2544 of the third driver 2540 c.

In the arrangement disclosed in FIGS. 14 and 15, the first driving wedge2564 a and the second driving wedge 2564 b moves into engagement withthe third driver 2540 c simultaneously. For example, the first drivingwedge 2564 a contacts the proximal end 2546 of the third staple driver2540 c as the second driving wedge 2564 b contacts the distal end 2544of the third staple driver 2540 c. Because the driving wedges 2564 a,2564 b, 2564 c depicted in FIG. 14 are configured to engage the ends ofthe angled drivers, the lifting force is applied directly below the legsof the staple that is supported on the angled third driver 2540 c. As aresult, the staple legs are further stabilized, and tilting and/ortipping of the staples legs during deployment can be prevented,minimized, and/or controlled.

The first and second driving wedges 2564 a, 2564 b shown in FIGS. 14 and15 are configured to similarly engage additional drivers 2540 in thefirst row 2534, and can sequentially deploy the staples 2512 a, 2512 bsupported thereon. For example, the first driving wedge 2564 a isconfigured to subsequently contact the proximal end 2546 of the firstdriver 2540 a as the second driving wedge 2564 b contacts the distal end2544 of the first driver 2440 a. Additionally, the first driving wedge2564 a is configured to sequentially engage and fire the paralleldrivers 2540 b, 2540 d and staples 2512 a in the first row 2534.

In various instances, the proximal end 2546 and the distal end 2544 ofthe third driver 2540 c can be equidistant from the center of mass ofthe third driver 2540 c. Because the driving wedges 2464 a and 2464 bdisclosed in FIGS. 14 and 15 are configured to simultaneously contactthe opposing ends of the angularly-oriented third staple driver 2540 cand to exert a driving and/or lifting force on the opposing ends of thestaple driver 2540 c equidistant from the center of mass, the stapledriver 2540 c is balanced throughout its deployment. As a result,rotation and/or torqueing of the third staple driver 2540 c may beprevented, avoided, and/or controlled.

In other instances, the driving wedges 2564 a, 2564 b may not contactthe ends 2546, 2544 of the angled staple drivers 2540. In suchinstances, however, the driving wedges 2564 a, 2564 b may be configuredto engage the angled staple drivers 2540 at a location that isequidistant from the center of mass of the driver 2540. Moreover, thedriving wedges 2564 a, 2564 b can be sufficiently offset tosimultaneously contact and lift the spaced locations of the driver 2540c.

Additionally, the second and third driving wedges 2564 b, 2564 c shownin FIGS. 14 and 15 are configured to similarly engage the drivers 2540in the second row 2536 and sequentially deploy the staples 2512 a, 2512b supported thereon. Referring still to the arrangement depicted in FIG.14, for example, the drivers 2540 in the second row 2536 are oriented atan angle such that the distance between the proximal end 2546 and thedistal end 2544 of each driver is also separated by the longitudinaldistance y, which equals the longitudinal distance x between the seconddriving wedge 2564 b and the third driving wedge 2564 c.

In other instances, the longitudinal distance between the second drivingwedge 2564 b and the third driving wedge 2564 c can be greater thanand/or less than the longitudinal distance between the first drivingwedge 2564 a and the second driving wedge 2564 b. Additionally oralternatively, the angled staples 2512 b in the second row 2536 can beoriented at a different angle than the angled staples 2512 b in thefirst row 2534. Moreover, in various instances, additional rows ofdrivers 2540 and staples 2512 a, 2512 b can be added to the arrangementdepicted in FIG. 14, and additional driving wedges can be configured toengage the additional drivers 2540 to fire the additional staples 2512a, 2512 b. In still other instances, the arrangement can further includea single row of drivers 2540 and staples 2512 a, 2512 b, for example.

The arrangement of staples 2512 a, 2512 b depicted in FIG. 14 can alsobe fired from a driverless staple cartridge. For example, referring toFIG. 16, the staples 2512 a, 2512 b can be arranged within a driverlesscartridge, such as the staple cartridge 2620 (FIG. 37), for example,which is further described herein. The staples 2512 a, 2512 b in adriverless staple cartridge can be directly engaged and/or driven by asled and/or a firing member. For example, the staples 2512 a, 2512 b caninclude a sled-engagement surface, which is configured to be directlyengaged by a staple-engagement surface of one or more of the drivingwedges 2564 a, 2564 b, and/or 2564 c of the wedge sled 2558.

As described herein, each staple 2512 a, 2512 b can be mass balancedrelative to the firing path(s) F₁, F₂, F₃ that is/are aligned with thestaple 2512 a, 2512 b. For example, referring to FIG. 16, the staples2512 a, which are arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis L, arealigned with one of the firing paths F₁, F₂, F₃. In the depictedarrangement, one of the driving wedges 2564 a, 2564 b, 2564 c drivinglyengages the parallel staples 2512 a along the length of the base of thestaple 2512 a. Additionally, the center of mass of each parallel staple2512 a is aligned with one of the firing paths F₁, F₂, F₃. Stateddifferently, one of the firing paths F₁, F₂, F₃ extends through thecenter of mass of each parallel staple 2512 a, and thus, the staples2512 a are mass balanced relative to the respective firing path F₁, F₂,F₃ during deployment. In such an arrangement, torqueing and/or rotationof the staples 2512 a during firing can be prevented, minimized, and/orcontrolled.

Additionally, where the staple arrangement depicted in FIG. 14 isutilized in a driverless cartridge, a pair of offset driving wedges 2564a, 2564 b, 2564 c is configured to simultaneously move into engagementwith each angularly-oriented staple 2512 b. For example, the first andsecond driving wedges 2564 a, 2564 b are configured to simultaneouslycontact an angled staple 2512 b in the first row 2534, and the secondand third driving wedges 2564 b, 2564 c are configured to simultaneouslycontact an angled staple 2512 b in the second row 2536. Thereafter, thewedge sled 2558 is configured to continue to translate relative to thestaples 2512 a, 2512 b, to sequentially contact and directly drive thestaples 2512 a, 2512 b from the driverless staple cartridge.

As described herein, a driverless staple cartridge can be employed tohold and fire a staple array that includes angularly-oriented staples.An end effector assembly 2600 including the first jaw 2002, the secondjaw 2004, the frame 2006, the articulation joint 2009, and a driverlessstaple cartridge 2620 is disclosed in FIG. 37. The staple cartridge 2620can be a single-use and/or disposable cartridge, which can be replacedwith another staple cartridge after firing. FIG. 37 discloses a staplecartridge 2620 that includes a deck 2626, a cartridge body 2624, and acasing 2622, which partially surrounds or encloses the cartridge body2624. Additionally, an array of staples, such as the staples 2612 (FIGS.39A and 39B), for example, can be removably positioned in the cartridgebody 2624.

In certain instances, the staple cartridge 2620 can be integrally formedwith the end effector assembly 2600 and/or can be permanently fixedwithin one of the jaws 2002, 2004, for example. In such instances, theend effector assembly 2600 can be a single-use and/or disposable endeffector. In other instances, the staple cartridge 2620 can be fixed tothe end effector assembly 2600, and may be reloaded with additionalstaples for subsequent firings, for example.

Referring to the staple cartridge 2620 depicted in FIG. 37, alongitudinal slot 2632 is defined at least partially though thecartridge body 2624. The longitudinal slot 2632 extends along alongitudinal axis L, which extends between a proximal end 2623 and adistal end 2625 of the cartridge body 2624. The longitudinal slot 2632shown in FIG. 37 extends from the proximal end 2623 toward the distalend 2625 and traverses a portion of the length of the cartridge body2624.

In some instances, the longitudinal slot 2632 can traverse the entirelength of the cartridge body 2624. In other instances, the longitudinalslot 2632 can extend from the distal end 2623 toward the proximal end2625, for example. In still other instances, the cartridge body 2624 maynot include a predefined and/or preformed longitudinal slot. Forexample, a firing member and/or a cutting element can transect and/orcut the cartridge body 2624 during the firing stroke, for example.

The staple cartridge 2620 disclosed in FIG. 37 is configured to fire anarray of angled staples 2612 (FIGS. 38A and 38B), which can be orientedlike the staple array 2011 shown in FIG. 7, for example. The angledstaples 2612 can be removably positioned in angled staple cavities 2628,shown in FIG. 37, which are defined into the cartridge body 2624. Forexample, the depicted staple cavities 2628 are angularly-orientedrelative to the longitudinal axis L. Additionally, the depictedarrangement of staple cavities 2628 corresponds to the arrangement ofstaples 2612 positioned in the cartridge 2620. Each staple cavity 2628shown in FIG. 37 includes an opening 2630 in the deck 2626, and eachopening 2630 includes a proximal end and a distal end. A staple axis canextend between the proximal end and the distal end, and the staple axisof the openings 2630 shown in FIG. 37 are skewed and/or angled relativeto the longitudinal axis L of the cartridge body 2624. In the staplecartridge 2620 of FIG. 37, all the staple cavities 2628 areangularly-oriented relative to the longitudinal axis L and variousstaple cavities 2628 are angularly-oriented relative to other staplecavities 2628.

The staple cavities 2628 depicted in FIG. 37 are arranged in multiplerows on each side of the longitudinal slot 2632. For example, the staplecavities 2628 are arranged in a first inside row 2633, a first outsiderow 2635, and a first intermediate row 2637 on a first side 2627 of thelongitudinal slot 2632, and staple cavities 2628 are arranged in asecond inside row 2634, a second outside row 2638, and a secondintermediate row 2636 on a second side 2629 of the longitudinal slot2632. Though the staple cavities 2628 do not cross or otherwise contacteach other, the longitudinal rows 2633, 2634, 2635, 2636, 2637, 2638 ofstaple cavities 2628 overlap. For example, a staple cavity 2628 extendslaterally outboard and/or inboard past the staple cavity 2628 in anadjacent row of staple cavities 2628, and a staple cavity 2628 extendsproximally and/or distally past the staple cavity 2628 in an adjacentrow of staple cavities 2628. Because the staple cavities 2628 and thestaples positioned therein are arranged in an overlapping array,bleeding and/or fluid flow in the stapled tissue can be controlled. Inthe staple cartridge 2620 depicted in FIG. 37, the staple cavities 2628and rows thereof are symmetrical relative to the longitudinal slot 2632.

In other instances, greater than or fewer than three rows of staplecavities 2628 can be positioned on each side of the longitudinal slot2632 and, in some instances, one of the sides 2627, 2629 of the staplecartridge 2620 can include a different number of rows of staple cavities2628 than the other side 2627, 2629 of the staple cartridge 2620. Insome instances, the staple cavities 2628 may not longitudinally and/orlaterally overlap the staple cavities 2628 in adjacent rows.Additionally or alternatively, in certain instances, the staple cavities2628 and/or the rows thereof can be asymmetrical relative to thelongitudinal slot 2632 and/or the longitudinal axis L.

Referring still to FIG. 37, the depicted staple cavities 2628 in eachlongitudinal row are parallel or substantially parallel. In other words,the staple cavities 2628 in the first inside row 2633 are parallel toeach other, the staple cavities 2628 in the first outside row 2635 areparallel to each other, the staple cavities 2628 in the firstintermediate row 2637 are parallel to each other, the staple cavities2628 in the second inside row 2634 are parallel to each other, thestaple cavities 2628 in the second outside row 2636 are parallel to eachother, and the staple cavities 2628 in the second intermediate row 2638are parallel to each other.

As also depicted in FIG. 37, the staple cavities 2628 in eachlongitudinal row are angularly-oriented relative to the staple cavities2628 in the adjacent longitudinal row(s) on the same side of thelongitudinal slot 2632. For example, on the first side 2627 of thecartridge body 2624, the staple cavities 2628 in the first intermediaterow 2637 are angularly-oriented relative to the staple cavities 2628 inthe first inner row 2633 and in the first outer row 2635. Additionally,on the second side 2629 of the cartridge body 2624, the staple cavities2628 in the second intermediate row 2638 are angularly-oriented relativeto the staple cavities 2628 in the second inner row 2634 and the secondouter row 2636.

In other instances, only a portion of the staples cavities 2628 in eachlongitudinal row 2633, 2634, 2635, 2636, 2637, 2638 may be parallel toeach other and/or less than all of the longitudinal rows 2633, 2634,2635, 2636, 2637, 2638 can include staple cavities 2628 that areparallel to each other. Additionally or alternatively, in certaininstances, at least a portion of the staple cavities 2628 can berandomly oriented. In some instances, at least one of the staplecavities 2628 in a longitudinal row 2633, 2634, 2635, 2636, 2637, 2638can be parallel to at least one of the staple cavities 2628 in anadjacent longitudinal row 2633, 2634, 2635, 2636, 2637, 2638. In certaininstances, a staple cartridge 2620 can include at least one staplecavity 2628 that is parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the cartridgebody 2624. See, for example, FIG. 11.

Referring still to FIG. 37, the depicted end effector assembly 2600includes a firing bar 2660 movably positioned relative to the cartridgebody 2624. The firing bar 2660 is configured to traverse the cartridgebody 2624 to fire the staples 2612 (FIGS. 38A and 38B) from the staplecavities 2628. The depicted firing bar 2660 further includes a cuttingedge 2661, which is configured to incise tissue as the firing bar 2660translates between the first jaw 2002 and the second jaw 2004.

The depicted firing member 2660 is dimensioned and positioned to fitwithin the longitudinal slot 2632, and to drivingly engage a sled, suchas a sled 2658 (FIGS. 37-38B), a sled 2758 (FIGS. 39-39B) or a sled 2858(FIG. 40) movably positioned within the driverless cartridge 2620. Asthe firing bar 2660 translates through the longitudinal slot 2632, thefiring bar 2660 moves the sled 2658 (FIGS. 37-38B), 2758 (FIGS. 39-39B),or 2858 (FIG. 40) through the cartridge body 2624.

The sled 2658 is disclosed in FIGS. 37-38B. The sled 2658 is dimensionedand positioned to directly engage the staples 2612 positioned in thedriverless cartridge 2620 (FIG. 37). The depicted sled 2658 includes acentral portion 2659 and driving wedges or driving rails 2664. Thedriving wedges 2664 include a staple-engagement or staple-contactingsurface 2666, which are inclined and/or ramped surfaces extending from adistal end to a proximal end of the sled 2658. As depicted in FIGS.37-38B, the inclined surfaces 2666 of the wedges 2664 have equal, orsubstantially equal, incline degrees or angles.

Each staple-contacting surface 2666 shown in FIGS. 37-38B is positionedto directly contact the staples 2612 (FIGS. 38A and 38B) positioned inthe staple cartridge 2620. More particularly, the staple-contactingsurfaces 2666 of the driving wedges 2664 are configured to contact thebase 2614 (FIG. 38B) of each staple 2612, and to lift the base 2614 ofthe staple 2612 upward to eject the staple 2612 from the staple cavity2628. For example, to lift the staples 2612 from lowered and/or unfiredpositions to lifted and/or fired positions, the distal end 2667 of eachinclined surface 2666 engages the base 2614 of the staple 2612, and theinclined surface 2666 moves distally across the base 2614 of the staple2612.

In the depicted arrangement, the firing bar 2660 and the cutting edge2661 thereof are configured to slide and/or translate within thelongitudinal slot 2632. Additionally, the driving wedges 2664 depictedin FIGS. 37-38B, which are shown laterally outboard of the firing bar2660 and the cutting edge 2661, and configured to contact the staples2612 (FIGS. 38A and 38B) positioned in the staple cavities 2628 (FIG.37). Multiple driving wedges 2664 are positioned on either side of thecentral portion 2659 of the wedge sled 2658. For example, in thedepicted sled 2658, four driving wedges 2664 a, 2664 b, 2664 c, 2664 dare positioned on each side of the central portion 2659.

Moreover, in the arrangement disclosed in FIGS. 37-38B, multiple drivingwedges 2664 a, 2664 b, 2664 c, 2664 d are configured to engage a singleangled staple 2612. For example, the first and second wedges 2664 a,2664 b are configured to engage staples 6212 positioned in the firstouter row 2633 of staple cavities 2628, the second and third wedges 2664b, 2664 c are configured to engage staples 2612 positioned in the firstintermediate row 2637, and the third and fourth wedges 2664 c, 2664 dare configured to engage staples 2612 positioned in the first outer row2635.

In various circumstances, it is desirable to support and drive staples2612 in the staple cartridge 2620 disclosed in FIG. 37 from multiplepositions along the base 2614 (FIG. 38B) of the staple 2612. Forexample, staples 2612 that are longitudinally aligned with a firing pathof a driving wedge 2664 are supported along the entire length of thebase 2614 of the staple 2612. For example, when staples 2612 are angledrelative to the firing paths of the sled 2658, as depicted in FIGS.37-38B, the staples 2612 can be supported at multiple locations alongthe base by utilizing multiple driving wedges 2664. Because the angledstaples 2612 are drivingly supported at multiple locations along thebase 2614 thereof, the staples 2612 can be balanced and/or stabilizedsuch that rotation and/or torqueing of the staples 2612 duringdeployment may be prevented, reduced, and/or controlled. Direct drivestaples that are mass balanced relative to multiple sled-engagementsurfaces, like the staples 2612, for example, could be incorporated intoother embodiments disclosed herein.

The inclined surfaces 2666 disclosed in FIGS. 37-38B are staggered. Forexample, the depicted inclined surfaces 2666 are longitudinallystaggered such that at least one inclined surface 2666 longitudinallyleads at least one other inclined surface 2666. The inclined surfaces2666 of the second and fourth driving wedges 2664 b, 2664 dlongitudinally lead the inclined surfaces 2666 of the first and thirddriving wedges 2664 a, 2664 c. The inclined surfaces 2666 of the secondand fourth driving wedges 2664 b, 2664 d are taller than the inclinedsurfaces 2666 of the first and third driving edges 2664 a, 2664 c at thealigned distal ends 2667. For example, as shown in FIGS. 38 and 38B, thefirst and third driving wedges 2664 a, 2664 c have a distal height y andthe second and fourth driving wedges 2664 b, 2664 d have a distal heightx, which is less than the height y.

The longitudinally staggered inclined surfaces 2666 are configured tomove into engagement with the angled staples 2612 simultaneously. Forexample, the staple-engagement surfaces 2666 of the first and secondwedges 2664 a, 2664 b are configured to simultaneously engage angledstaples 2612 in the first outer row 2633 (FIG. 37) of staple cavities2628. Additionally, the staple-engagement surfaces 2666 of the secondand third wedges 2664 b, 2664 c are configured to simultaneously engageangled staples 2612 in the first intermediate row 2637 (FIG. 37).Moreover, the staple-engagement surfaces 2666 of the third and fourthwedges 2664 c, 2664 d are configured to simultaneously engage staples2612 positioned in the first outer row 2635 (FIG. 37).

The deployment or firing of a staple 2612 is depicted in FIGS. 38A and38B, in which the third and fourth wedges 2664 c, 2664 d of the driver2658 are in driving engagement with the staple 2612. The third wedge2664 c can initially contact the staple 2612 at point A and the fourthwedge 2664 d can initially contact the staple 2612 at point B. The thirdand fourth wedges 2664 c, 2664 d are configured to engage the staple2612 simultaneously such that the staple 2612 contacts points A and Bconcurrently or nearly concurrently. Because of the height differencebetween the staple-engagement surfaces 2666 of the third and fourthwedges 2664 c, 2664 d, points A and B can be longitudinally offset suchthat points A and B are at the same, or essentially the same, elevation.

Referring still to FIGS. 38A and 38B, as the driver 2658 continues tomove distally in the staple cartridge 2620, the staple 2612 can slide upthe staple-engagement surfaces 2666 of the third and fourth wedges 2664c, 2664 d to points A′ and B′ on the third and fourth wedges 2664 c,2664 d, respectively. As shown in FIG. 38B, the staple 2612 maintains avertically upright orientation during deployment. Thereafter, the staple2612 can continue to slide up the staple-engagement surfaces 2666 of thethird and fourth wedges 2664 c, 2664 d to points A″ and B″ on the thirdand fourth wedges 2664 c, 2664 d, respectively. As shown in FIG. 38B,the staple 2612 continues to maintain a vertically upright orientation.In other words, the pair of staple-engagement surfaces 2666 stabilizeand/or balance the staple 2612 during deployment, such that rotation ortorqueing of the staples 2612 may be prevented, minimized and/orcontrolled.

In other instances, the driving wedges or rails of a wedge sled can alldecline to a height of zero, or essentially zero. For example, referringnow to FIGS. 39-39B, the wedge sled 2758 is depicted. The wedge sled2758 can be employed in the staple cartridge 2620 and the end effector2600 (FIG. 37) to fire staples 2612 from the staple cartridge 2620 (FIG.39A).

Similar to the sled 2658, the wedge sled 2758 disclosed in FIGS. 39-39Bincludes four driving wedges 2764 on either side of a central portion2759. Each driving wedge 2764 includes an inclined, staple-engagementsurface 2766, which is configured to directly engage and drive thestaples 2612 from the staple cavities 2628. Also similar to the sled2658, the staple-engagement surfaces 2766 of the driving wedges 2764depicted in FIGS. 39-39B are longitudinally staggered, such that thefirst and third driving wedges 2764 a, 2764 c longitudinally trail thesecond and fourth driving wedges 2764 b, 2764 d.

The longitudinally staggered inclined surfaces 2766 of the drivingwedges 2764 a, 2764 b, 2764 c, 2764 d disclosed in FIGS. 39-39B areconfigured to move into engagement with angled staples 2612simultaneously. For example, the staple-engagement surfaces 2766 of thefirst and second wedges 2764 a, 2764 b are configured to simultaneouslyengage angled staples 2612 positioned in the first outer row 2635 (FIG.37). Additionally, the staple-engagement surfaces 2766 of the second andthird wedges 2764 b, 2764 c are configured to simultaneously engageangled staples 2612 positioned in the first intermediate row 2637 (FIG.37). Moreover, the staple-engagement surfaces 2766 of the third andfourth wedges 2764 c, 2764 d are configured to simultaneously engageangled staples 2612 positioned in the first inner row 2633 (FIG. 37).

Additionally, the longitudinally staggered inclined surfaces 2666 of thedriving wedges 2764 a, 2764 b, 2764 c, 2764 d disclosed in FIGS. 39-39Bare configured to drive the angled staples 2612 simultaneously. Forexample, the staple-engagement surfaces 2766 of the first and secondwedges 2764 a, 2764 b are configured to simultaneously drive angledstaples 2612 in the first outer row 2635 of staple cavities 2628 (FIG.37). Additionally, the staple-engagement surfaces 2766 of the second andthird wedges 2764 b, 2764 c are configured to simultaneously driveangled staples 2612 positioned in the first intermediate row 2637 (FIG.37). Moreover, the staple-engagement surfaces 2766 of the third andfourth wedges 2764 c, 2764 d are configured to simultaneously driveangled staples 2612 positioned in the first inner row 2633 (FIG. 37).

Referring primarily to FIG. 39A, the second wedge 2764 b and the thirdwedge 2764 c on the first side 2627 of the cartridge body 2624 areconfigured to move into engagement with the second staple 2612 b, whichis the proximal most staple and is aligned with the firing paths of thesecond wedge 2764 b and the third wedge 2764 c. Additionally, the secondwedge 2764 b and the third wedge 2764 c can be equidistant from thecenter of mass (COM) of the second staple 2612 b. As the sled 2758continues to translate distally, the second wedge 2764 b and the thirdwedge 2764 c are configured to drivingly engage the second staple 2612 bto lift and fire the staple 2612 b.

In the arrangement disclosed in FIG. 39A, as the second wedge 2764 b andthe third wedge 2764 c lift the second staple 2612 b, the first wedge2764 a and the second wedge 2764 b on the first side 2627 of thecartridge body 2624 are configured to move into engagement with thefirst staple 2612 a and the third wedge 2764 c and the fourth wedge 2764d on the first side 2627 are configured to move into engagement with thethird staple 2612 c. Additionally, as depicted in FIG. 39A, the firstwedge 2764 a and the second wedge 2764 b are equidistant from the centerof mass (COM) of the first staple 2612 a, and the third wedge 2764 c andthe fourth wedge 2764 d are equidistant from the center of mass (COM) ofthe third staple 2612 c. As the sled 2758 continues to translatedistally, the first wedge 2764 a and the second wedge 2764 b drivinglyengage the first staple 2612 a to lift and fire the staple 2612 b, andthe third wedge 2764 c and the fourth wedge 2764 d drivingly engage thethird staple 2612 c to lift and fire the staple 2612 c.

The paired driving wedge arrangement described above and depicted inFIG. 39A is configured to continue simultaneously engaging and liftingthe staples 2612 in the staple cartridge 2620 as the sled 2758 continuesto translate distally. Because the sled 2758 supports each staple 2612at multiple locations along the base thereof, the staples 2612 arestabilized and/or balanced during deployment. Additionally, because thestaple-engagement surfaces 2766 of the sled 2758 are equidistant fromthe center of mass (COM) of each contacted staple 2612, rotation and/ortorqueing of the staples 2612 may be further prevented, minimized, orcontrolled. Moreover, because the driving wedges 2764 a, 2764 b, 2764 c,2764 are longitudinally staggered, the engagement of the multipledriving wedges 2764 a, 2764 b, 2764 c, 2764 with each staple 2612 istimed and/or synchronized to balance the driving forces exerted on eachstaple 2612 throughout its deployment.

The driving sled 2858 is depicted in FIG. 40. The wedge sled 2758 can beemployed in the staple cartridge 2620 and the end effector 2600 (FIG.37) to fire staples 2612 from the staple cavities 2620 (FIG. 39A).Similar to the sleds 2658 and 2758, the driving sled 2858 includesmultiple driving wedges 2864 on either side of a central portion 2859.Each driving wedge 2864 includes an inclined, staple-engagement surface2866, which is configured to directly engage and drive the staples 2612from the staple cavities 2628. Moreover, the inclined, staple-engagementsurfaces 2866 are angled or sloped laterally. Because thestaple-engagement surfaces 2866 are laterally and longitudinally sloped,each surface 2866 includes longitudinally offset support portions, whichdrivingly engage the angled staples 2612 throughout the deployment andfiring thereof.

For example, the sloped staple-engagement surfaces 2866 disclosed inFIG. 40 are configured to drivingly engage the staples 2612 along aportion of the base of each staple 2612. In the arrangement depicted inFIG. 40, the driving force exerted on the staple 2612 is distributedover a larger surface area. For example, a staple-engagement surface2866 can contact at least 50% of the length of the base of the staple2612. In other instances, the staple engagement-surface can contact atleast 75% of the length of the base of the staple 2612. In still otherinstances, the staple engagement-surface can contact less than 50% ormore than 75% the length of the base of the staple 2612. Moreover, thedriving force from the sled 2858 is balanced relative to center of massof each staple 2612 to further stabilize and balance the staple 2612during deployment. As a result, rotation and/or torqueing of the staple2612 may be prevented, minimized, or controlled.

As described herein, a staple array that includes staplesangularly-oriented relative to the longitudinal axis of the staplecartridge and/or the firing path of the firing member provides variousbenefits. For example, such a staple array can provide improvedflexibility and/or stretchability within stapled tissue. As a result,incidences of tissue tearing can be reduced. In certain instances, astaple array can also include staples with different length bases. Thevariable length bases within a staple array can promote increasedflexibility and/or stretchability in stapled tissue. Additionally, incertain arrangements, staples having shorter bases can nest within thestaple array. For example, the staples having shorter bases can bepositioned in narrower spaces between staples having longer bases. Suchan arrangement can densify the staple line, which can improve control ofbleeding and/or fluid flow in the stapled tissue.

A staple array 3011 is depicted in FIG. 41. The array 3011 includes longstaples 3012 and short staples 3013. As shown in FIG. 41, the longstaples 3012 have a base length of l₁, and the short staples 3013 have abase length of l₂, which is less than l₁. In the depicted array 3011, afirst long staple 3012 a is aligned with an axis A_(a), and a firstshort staple 3013 is aligned with an axis A_(b), which is parallel tothe axis A_(a). Additional long and short staples 3012, 3013, such asstaples 3012 e, 3013 b, 3013 c, and 3013 d, for example, are parallel tothe axes A_(a) and A_(b). As further disclosed in the array 3011 shownin FIG. 41, a second long staple 3012 is aligned with an axis A_(c),which traverses the axes A_(a) and A_(b). Additional long staples 3012,such as staples 3012 c, 3012 d, and 3012 f, for example, are parallel tothe axis A_(c).

In other arrangements, additional short staples 3012 can also beparallel to the axis A_(c). In some instances, various staples can bearranged along axes that are non-parallel to axes A_(a), A_(b) andA_(c). For example, the staple array 3011 can include staples that areoriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the staple cartridgeand/or to the firing path of a driving sled. Additionally, in variousinstances, the staple array 3011 can include staples having base lengthsthat are different than l₂ and l₁. In some instances, the staple array3011 can include additional and/or fewer longitudinal rows of staples3012, 3013. For example, the row of long staples 3012 aligned with thefirst long staple 3012 a can be removed, and/or the row of long staples3012 aligned with the second long staple 3012 b can be removed, and/orthe row of short staples aligned with first short staple 3013 a can beremoved, and/or the row of long staples 3012 aligned with the third longstaple 3012 c can be removed, and/or the row of short staples 3013aligned with the second short staple 3013 b can be removed, and/or therow of long staples 3013 aligned with the fourth long staple 3012 d canbe removed.

Referring again to FIG. 41, a short staple 3013 is embedded in thestaple array 3011 intermediate two long staples 3012. For example, twolong staples 3012 in the array 3011, such as the third long staple 3012c and the sixth long staple 3012 f shown in FIG. 41, are parallel andlaterally aligned. In such an arrangement, a space is defined betweenthe third and sixth long staples 3012 c and 3012 f, and the space isconfigured to accommodate the third short staple 3013 c. Accordingly,the third short staple 3013 c in the depicted array 3011 is nestledbetween the third long staple 3012 c and the sixth long staple 3012 f.In such an arrangement, the third short staple 3013 c, and similarlyplaced shorts staples 3013 in the array 3011, can densify the stapleline by filling the spaces between the long staples 3012. In variousinstances, bleeding and/or fluid flow control is improved because thestaple line is densified in the array 3011. Densified staple lines, likethe staple array 3011, for example, could be incorporated into otherembodiments disclosed herein.

In other instances, the long staples 3012 defining a space therebetweenfor accommodating a short staple can be non-parallel to each other. Forexample, the third and sixth long staples 3012 c, 3012 f can be skewedand/or otherwise non-parallel to each other. Additionally oralternatively, the long staples 3012 defining the space therebetween foraccommodating a short staple 3013 can only partially laterally overlap.For example, in certain instances, the third long staple 3012 c can belaterally outboard or laterally inboard relative to the sixth longstaple 3012 f, such that only a portion of the third and sixth staples3012 c, 3012 f are laterally aligned.

An array of staples, such as the array 3011, for example, can bepositioned in a driverless staple cartridge, such as the driverlessstaple cartridge 2620 (FIG. 37), for example, and can be directlyengaged and driven from the staple cartridge by a driving sled. In suchinstances, the staples 3012, 3013 in the array 3011 can be mass balancedrelative to the driving wedges of a sled that contacts and drives thestaples 3012, 3013. For example, the driving wedges can apply the firingforce at the ends of the staple bases equidistant from the center ofmass of each staple 3012, 3013. In other instances, the firing force canbe applied at various spaced locations along the base of a staple 3012,3013, and the cumulative firing force can be balanced relative to thestaple 3012, 3013. In instances where a staple does not overlie a firingpath and/or is not balanced relative to the firing path, a staple drivermay be employed. For example, a multi-staple driver, as furtherdescribed herein, can simultaneously lift multiple staples from a staplecartridge.

A staple array 3111 is depicted in FIG. 42. The array 3111 includes longstaples 3112 and short staples 3113. As shown in FIG. 42, the longstaples 3112 have a base length of l₁, and the short staples 3113 have abase length of l₂, which is less than l₁. In the depicted array 3111, afirst short staple 3113 a is aligned with an axis A_(a), and a firstlong staple 3112 a is aligned with an axis A_(b), which traverses theaxis A_(a). Additional short staples 3113 are oriented parallel to theaxis A_(a) and additional long staples 3112 are parallel to the axisA_(b).

In other arrangements, at least one short staple 3113 can be orientedparallel to the axis A_(b) and/or at least one long staple 3112 can beoriented parallel to the axis A_(a). In some instances, various staples3112, 3113 can be arranged along axes that are non-parallel to axesA_(a) and A_(b). For example, the staple array 3111 may include staplesthat are oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the staplecartridge and/or to the firing path of the driving wedges 3064, whichare also depicted in FIG. 42. Additionally, in various instances, thestaple array 3111 can include staples having base lengths that aredifferent than l₂ and l₁, and/or the staple array 3111 can includeadditional and/or fewer longitudinal rows of staples 3112, 3113.

Referring still to FIG. 42, a short staple 3113 can be embedded in thestaple array 3111 intermediate at least two laterally overlapping longstaples 3112. In such an arrangement, the nested short staple 3113 inthe array 3111 can densify the staple line by filling the spaces betweenthe adjacent long staples 3112. Because the staple line is densified inthe array 3111, bleeding and/or fluid flow control can be improved.Densified staple lines, like the staple array 3111, for example, couldbe incorporated into other embodiments disclosed herein.

In other instances, the long staples 3112 defining a space therebetweenfor accommodating a short staple can be non-parallel to each other.Additionally or alternatively, the long staples 3112 defining the spacetherebetween for accommodating a short staple 3113 may only partiallyoverlap.

An array of staples, such as the array 3111, for example, can bepositioned in a driverless staple cartridge, such as the driverlessstaple cartridge 2620 (FIG. 37), for example, and can be directlyengaged and driven from the staple cartridge by a driving sled, such asthe sled 2058 (FIG. 37). In such instances, the staples 3112, 3113 inthe array 3111 can be mass balanced relative to the driving wedges 3064of the sled that contact and drive the staples 3112, 3113. For example,the driving wedges 3064 can apply the firing force at the ends of thestaple bases equidistant from the center of mass of the staples 3112,3113.

In other instances, the firing force can be applied at various spacedlocations along the base of the staples 3112, 3113, and the cumulativefiring force can be balanced relative to the staples 3112, 3113. Ininstances where a staple 3112, 3113 does not overlie a firing pathand/or is not balanced relative to the firing path, a staple driver canbe employed. For example, a multi-staple driver, as further describedherein, can simultaneously lift multiple staples from a staplecartridge.

In various instances, where a sled is configured to directly drive astaple, the staple can include a sled-engagement surface and the sledcan include a staple-engagement surface. The staples can be generally“V-shaped” staples having a base and non-parallelly extending legs. Forexample, referring again to the staple 2612 depicted in FIGS. 39B and40, for example, the staple 2612 includes a base 2614, a first leg 2616extending from a first end of the base 2614, and a second leg 2618extending from a second end of the base 2614. The staple 2612 can beformed from a wire, such as a wire having a circular cross-section, andthus, the outer perimeter of the staple 2612 can consist of roundedsurfaces. As a result, the sled-engagement surface of the staple 2612can include a rounded and/or contoured surface.

In other instances, the staple 2612 can be formed from a wire having apolygonal cross-section, and thus, the outer perimeter of the staple2612 can include edges and flat or planar surfaces. In such anembodiment, the sled-engagement surface of the staple 2612 can includeat least one flat and/or planar surfaces, for example. In still otherinstances, the outer perimeter of the staple 2612 can include bothcontoured and planar surfaces. For example, the staple 2612 can beformed from a wire having a circular cross-section, which can beflattened and/or otherwise deformed to form a flat sled-engagementsurface.

In certain instances, a staple can be formed from a piece of material.For example, a staple can be stamped, cut, and/or molded from a sheet ofmaterial. Various stamped staples are described in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/138,481, entitled SURGICAL STAPLES AND METHODSFOR MAKING THE SAME, filed Dec. 23, 2013, which is hereby incorporatedby reference herein in its entirety. In various instances, a staple canbe stamped or otherwise formed from a single piece of material, forexample, and can remain a single and/or unitary piece of material, forexample. In various instances, the sled-engagement surface of a staple,such as a stamped staple, can include a flat or planar surface of thestamped or otherwise formed piece. Additionally, in certain instances,the sled-engagement surface can include a groove and/or cutout, whichcan be configured to receive a driving wedge of a wedge sled. When astaple is angularly-oriented relative to the firing path of the drivingwedge, the groove can traverse the base of the staple at an angle.

A stamped staple 2912 is depicted in FIGS. 26-28. The staple 2912includes a base 2914, a first leg 2916, and a second leg 2918. As shownin FIGS. 26-28, the outer perimeter of the staple 2912 includes flat andcontoured surfaces. Moreover, the staple 2912 includes a groove or track2915 (FIGS. 27 and 28), which has been cut into the base 2914. Thegroove 2915 is configured to receive a driving wedge 2964 of a drivesled 2958.

In various instances, the width of the groove 2915 can be slightlylarger than the width of the driving wedge 2964 received therein. Forexample, the width of the groove 2915 can be dimensioned to receive thedriving wedge 2964 and prevent lateral shifting of the staple 2915relative to the wedge 2964.

The staple 2912 depicted in FIGS. 26-28 is angularly-oriented relativeto the firing path F (FIG. 28) of the driving wedge 2964. For example,the staple 2912 extends along an axis A (FIG. 27), which traverses thefiring path F. As a result, the depicted groove 2915 isangularly-oriented across the base 2914 of the staple 2912. For example,the axis A can be oriented at an angle θ relative to the firing path F.The angle θ depicted in FIG. 28 is 45°.

The base 2914 has an extended length l. For example, the length l of thebase 2914 is greater than the length of the staple legs 2916, 2918.Because the base 2914 is elongated, the groove 2915 includes anelongated guide surface or track for the driving wedge 2964, whichpromotes stability of the staple 2912 during deployment. Staples havingan elongated guide or track for receiving a driving wedge, like thestaples 2912, for example, could be incorporated into other embodimentsdisclosed herein.

Referring primarily to FIG. 28, the staple 2912 has a center of mass(COM), which coincides with the firing path F. For example, the firingpath F extends through the center of mass (COM) of the staple 2912, suchthat the staple 2912 is balanced relative to the driving wedge 2964. Asa result, the driving force exerted on the staple 2912 can lift thestaple legs 2916, 2918 simultaneously and torqueing or rotation of thestaple 2912 can be prevented, minimized, and/or controlled.

In various instances, a groove or track similar to the groove 2915 canbe defined into an unstamped staple. For example, a wire staple can becut, stamped, and/or ground to create a track for slidably receiving adriving wedge. In such instances, the staple base may have the samelength as the staple legs or, in other instances, the staple base can beflattened to increase or elongate the length thereof. Additionally, incertain instances, as further described herein, multiple driving wedgescan drivingly engage a staple. In such instances, the staple can includemultiple grooves or tracks, which can each be configured to receive adriving wedge. Moreover, in certain instances, a staple having a guidetrack, similar to the groove 2915, for example, can be oriented parallelto the longitudinal axis of a staple cartridge. For example, a parallelstaple can be longitudinally aligned with a firing path of a drivingwedge. In such instances, the guide track defined into the base of thestaple can extend along the base of the staple parallel thereto.

As described herein, angularly-oriented staples can provided increasedflexibility and/or stretchability to stapled tissue. For example, theangled staples in an array of fired staples can pivot and/or rotatetoward alignment with the cut line and/or the longitudinal axis of thestaple line to facilitate lengthening and/or longitudinal deformation ofthe stapled tissue. Because the angled staples can pivot and/or rotatein the array of stapled tissue, tearing and/or stretching of the tissuecan be reduced and/or prevented. Moreover, stresses in the tissue and/ortrauma to the stapled tissue can be minimized

In addition to the longitudinal flexibility afforded by a longitudinallystretchable array of fired staples, it can be desirable to providelateral customizations to the tissue treated by the array of staples.For example, the compressive force exerted on the tissue can beoptimized and/or tailored based on the relative lateral position of thetissue relative to the staple line. In certain instances, it can bedesirable to customize the compressive force on the tissue prior tostapling and/or during stapling. In other instances, it can be desirableto customize the compressive force on the stapled tissue. Moreover, instill other instances, it can be desirable to customize the compressiveforce on tissue prior to staling, during stapling, and after stapling,for example.

The combination of lateral tissue compression customization andlongitudinal tissue flexibility can provide synergistic tissue effects.For example, when compressive forces exerted on the tissue during and/orafter stapling generate less stress in the compressed tissue and/oraffect reduced tissue trauma, the compressed tissue may accommodateincreased elastic deformation. In other words, as optimally compressedtissue is stretched and/or elongated, the optimally compressed tissuemay better accommodate the rotating and/or pivoting of staples therein.Moreover, when stapled tissue readily accommodates staple pivotingand/or shifting, stresses in the stapled tissue may be reduced andtrauma to the stapled tissue may be minimized. Accordingly, as staplespivot and/or shift to accommodate for tissue elongation or longitudinalstretch, stress and/or trauma to the optimally compressed tissue can befurther minimized.

A staple cartridge 3420 is depicted in FIGS. 43-45. The depicted staplecartridge 3420 includes a cartridge body 3424 and a deck 3422. Multiplestaple cavities 3428 are defined into the body 3424 of the depictedstaple cartridge 3420, and each staple cavity 3428 forms an opening 3430in the deck 3422. Additionally, the staple cavities 3428 shown in FIGS.43-45 are angularly-oriented relative to the longitudinal axis L (FIG.44) of the staple cartridge 3420. In the depicted staple cartridge 3420,a longitudinal slot 3432 is defined partially through the cartridge body3424, and three rows of staple cavities 3428 are positioned on eitherside of the longitudinal slot 3432. The arrangement of staple cavities3428 shown in FIGS. 43-45 is configured to receive an array of angledstaples. For example, multiple staples, such as the staples 3412 (FIG.45) are removably positioned in the staple cavities 3428.

In the depicted staple cartridge 3420, the staple cavities 3428 in anoutside row on a first side of the longitudinal slot 3432 are orientedat a first angle relative to the longitudinal axis L (FIG. 44), thestaple cavities 3428 in an intermediate row on the first side of thelongitudinal slot 3432 are oriented at a second angle relative to thelongitudinal axis L, and the staple cavities 3428 in an inner row on thefirst side of the longitudinal slot 3432 are oriented at a third anglerelative to the longitudinal axis L. In the depicted staple cartridge3420, the third angle is the same, or generally the same, as the firstangle, and the second angle is 90 degrees, or approximately 90 degrees,offset from the first angle and from the third angle.

As further depicted in FIGS. 43-45, the staple cavities 3428 in anoutside row on a second side of the longitudinal slot 3432 are orientedat a fourth angle relative to the longitudinal axis L (FIG. 44), thestaple cavities 3428 in an intermediate row on the second side of thelongitudinal slot 3432 are oriented at a fifth angle relative to thelongitudinal axis L, and the staple cavities 3428 in an inside row onthe second side of the longitudinal slot 3432 are oriented at a sixthangle relative to the longitudinal axis L. In the depicted staplecartridge 3420, the sixth angle is the same, or generally the same, asthe fourth angle, and the fifth angle is 90 degrees, or approximately 90degrees, offset from the fourth angle and from the sixth angle.Additionally, in the arrangement depicted in FIGS. 43-45, the secondangle is the same, or generally the same, as the fourth angle and thesixth angle, and the first angle is the same, or generally the same, asthe third angle and the fifth angle.

In other instances, the staple cartridge 3420 may include additionaland/or fewer rows of staple cavities. Additionally or alternatively, theangular orientation of the staples 3412 in each row may be adjustedand/or modified to accommodate a different array. For example, incertain instances, at least one staple cavity can be parallel to thelongitudinal axis L.

In various instances, the staple cartridge 3420 depicted in FIGS. 43-45can be used with the end effector 2000 depicted in FIG. 7. For example,the staple cartridge 3420 can be loaded into the elongate channel of thesecond jaw 2004. Additionally, in certain instances, the staplecartridge 3420 can be fired with single-staple drivers, multi-stapledrivers, and/or a combination thereof. For example, a single-stapledriver 3440 (FIG. 45) can be positioned in each staple cavity 3428, andcan drivingly engage the staple 3412 supported thereon. The drivers 3440shown in FIG. 45 can be positioned within the cartridge body 3424 suchthat the cradle of each driver 3440 is aligned with one of the staples3412 positioned in one of the staple cavities 3428.

In certain instances, the staple cartridge 3420 can include multi-stapledrivers. For example, a multi-staple driver can be configured to firethe staples 3412 (FIG. 45) from a first group of staple cavities 3428,and another multi-staple driver can be configured to fire staples 3412from a second group of staple cavities 3428. In other instances, thestaple cartridge 3420 may not include drivers. For example, a firingmember and/or sled, such as the firing member 2660 and the sled 2658(FIG. 37), for example, can be configured to directly contact, engage,and/or drive the staples 3412. In various instances, the drivers 3440and/or the staples 3412 can be mass balanced relative to the firingpath(s) of a sled, such as the sled 2058 (FIG. 7) and/or sled 2658 (FIG.37), for example, during deployment.

The deck 3422 depicted in FIGS. 43-45 includes multiple longitudinallyextending portions. For example, the deck 3422 includes a firstlongitudinal portion 3422 a, a second longitudinal portion 3422 b, and athird longitudinal portion 3422 c on one side of the longitudinal slot3432, and a fourth longitudinal portion 3422 d, a fifth longitudinalportion 3422 e, and a sixth longitudinal portion 3422 f on the otherside of the longitudinal slot 3432. As shown in FIGS. 43-45, alongitudinal row of staple cavities 3428 is aligned with eachlongitudinally extending portion 3422 a, 3422 b, 3422 c, 3422 d, 3422 e,3422 f. For example, the outside row of staple cavities 3428 on thefirst side of the longitudinal slot 3432 is aligned with the firstlongitudinal portion 3422 a, the intermediate row of staple cavities3428 on the first side of the longitudinal slot 3432 is aligned with thesecond longitudinal portion 3422 b, and the inside row of staplecavities 3428 on the first side of the longitudinal slot 3432 is alignedwith the third longitudinal portion 3422 c. Additionally, the outsiderow of staple cavities 3428 on the second side of the longitudinal slot3432 is aligned with the fourth longitudinal portion 3422 d, theintermediate row of staple cavities 3428 on the second side of thelongitudinal slot 3432 is aligned with the fifth longitudinal portion3422 e, and the inside row of staple cavities 3428 on the second side ofthe longitudinal slot 3432 is aligned with the sixth longitudinalportion 3422 f.

In other instances, the staple cartridge 3420 may include additionaland/or fewer longitudinally extending portions. For example, thelongitudinal portions can be adjusted and/or modified to correspond to adifferent arrangement of staple cavities and staples. In certainembodiments, more than one longitudinal row of staple cavities cancoincide with at least one longitudinal portion. Additionally oralternatively, at least one longitudinal portion may not include astaple cavity and/or a row of staples, for example.

In the depicted staple cartridge 3420, the adjacent longitudinalportions 3422 a, 3422 b, 3422 c, 3422 d, 3422 e, and 3422 f arevertically offset from each other by a ridge 3423. For example, a ridge3423 extends between the first portion 3422 a and the second portion3422 b, and another ridge 3423 extends between the second portion 3422 band the third portion 3422 c. Additionally, in the depicted arrangement,a ridge 3423 extends between the fourth portion 3422 d and the fifthportion 3422 e, and another ridge 3423 extends between the fifth portion3422 e and the sixth portion 3422 f. As shown in FIGS. 43-45, thelongitudinal slot 3432 extends between the third portion 3422 c and thefourth portion 3422 d.

The ridges 3423 disclosed in FIGS. 43-45 define an elevation change inthe deck 3422. For example, the ridge 3423 between the first portion3422 a and the second portion 3422 b defines a step upward, such thatthe second portion 3422 b has a higher elevation than the first portion3422. In various instances, the ridges 3423 adjust the height of thedeck 3422 laterally. For example, the ridges 3423 increase the height ofthe deck 3422 inwardly and decrease the height of the deck 3422outwardly, such that the largest height is adjacent to the longitudinalslot 3432 and the laterally flanking portions have the shortest height.

The gap between the deck 3422 and the staple forming surface of theanvil controls the degree of tissue compression when the jaws of an endeffector, such as the first jaw 2002 and the second jaw 2004 of the endeffector 2000 (FIG. 7) are clamped. Accordingly, the height of the deck3422 can affect the degree of tissue compression between the clampedjaws. For example, in regions where the deck 3422 is taller, theadjacent tissue can be relatively more compressed between the clampedjaws, and in regions where the deck 3422 is shorter, the adjacent tissuecan be relatively less compressed between the clamped jaws. Accordingly,the ridges 3423 disclosed in FIGS. 43-45 can affect a lateral variationin tissue compression. As further described herein, the degrees oftissue compression can be selected and/or optimized to reduce stressand/or trauma to the compressed tissue. Moreover, because the staplecartridge 3420 is configured to fire a longitudinally flexible array ofstaples 3412, the integrity of the stapled tissue can be furtherpreserved.

The ridges 3423 disclosed in FIGS. 43-45 affect abrupt and/or steepsteps between the adjacent longitudinal portions 3422 a, 3422 b, 3422 c,3422 d, 3422 e, and 3422 f. FIGS. 43-45 further disclose that the ridges3423 curve around the staple cavities 3428 in the adjacent rows ofstaple cavities 3428. For example, the ridges 3423 generally extendalong a path that corresponds to and/or matches the angular orientationof the staple cavity or cavities 3428 adjacent thereto. As a result, theridges 3423 include multiple contours and/or bends. Additionally, theridges 3423 include multiple straight, or generally straight portions,intermediate the contours.

In other instances, a ridge 3423 may define a less steep elevationchange. For example, at least one ridge 3423 and/or a portion thereofcan gradually slope and/or incrementally step to a different elevation.Additionally, in certain instances, the height of a longitudinal portion3422 a, 3422 b, 3422 c, 3422 d, 3422 e, 3422 f can vary. For example,the height of each longitudinal portion 3422 a, 3422 b, 3422 c, 3422 d,3422 e, 3422 f can vary laterally and/or longitudinally. In suchinstances, the deck may define sloped and/or angled surfacesintermediate the ridges 3423, for example.

In other staple cartridges, ridges can extend along a different pathbetween the rows of staples and staple cavities. For example, the staplecartridge 3520, which is shown in FIGS. 46-48, is similar to the staplecartridge 3420 (FIGS. 43-45) and like reference characters refer tosimilar elements. For example, the staple cartridge 3520 includes acartridge body 3524 and a deck 3522. Multiple staple cavities 3528 aredefined into the body 3524 of the depicted staple cartridge 3520, andeach staple cavity 3528 forms an opening 3530 in the deck 3422.Additionally, the staple cavities 3528 shown in FIGS. 46-48 match thearray of staple cavities 3428 depicted in FIGS. 43-45. For example, inthe depicted staple cartridge 3520, a longitudinal slot 3532 is definedpartially through the cartridge body 3524, and three rows of staplecavities 3528 are positioned on either side of the longitudinal slot3532. The arrangement of staple cavities 3528 shown in FIGS. 46-48 isconfigured to receive an array of angled staples. For example, multiplestaples, such as the staples 3412 (FIG. 45) can be removably positionedin the staple cavities 3528.

The deck 3522 disclosed in FIGS. 46-48 includes multiple longitudinallyextending portions. For example, the depicted deck 3522 includes a firstlongitudinal portion 3522 a, a second longitudinal portion 3522 b, and athird longitudinal portion 3522 c on one side of the longitudinal slot3532, and a fourth longitudinal portion 3522 d, a fifth longitudinalportion 3522 e, and a sixth longitudinal portion 3522 f on the otherside of the longitudinal slot 3432. As shown in FIGS. 46-48, alongitudinal row of staple cavities 3528 is aligned with eachlongitudinally extending portion 3522 a, 3522 b, 3522 c, 3522 d, 3522 e,3522 f. Additionally, in the depicted staple cartridge 3520, theadjacent longitudinal portions 3522 a, 3522 b, 3522 c, 3522 d, 3522 e,and 3522 f are vertically offset from each other by a ridge 3523.

The ridges 3523 disclosed in FIGS. 46-48 extend along different pathsthan the ridges 3423 of the deck 3422 (FIGS. 43-45). For example, theridges 3423 include multiple cut-ins, such as cut-ins 3523 a, 3523 b,3523 c, and 3523 d (FIG. 47), for example, where the ridges 3523 do notextend along and/or adjacent to a staple cavity 3528. The geometry ofthe cut-ins 3523 a, 3523 b, 3523 c, and 3523 d can be selected to adjustthe tissue compression. For example, a cut-in can enlarge a region ofreduced pressure and reduce an adjacent region of increased pressure. Invarious instances, it may be desirable to provide the cut-ins 3523 a,3523 b, 3523 c, and 3523 d towards the knife slot 3532 to provideregions of reduced tissue compression, for example.

As further described herein, the ridges 3523 disclosed in FIGS. 46-48can affect a lateral variation in tissue compression. For example, thedegrees of tissue compression can be selected and/or optimized to reducestress and/or trauma to the compressed tissue. Moreover, because thestaple cartridge 3520 is configured to fire a longitudinally flexiblearray of staples 3512, the integrity of the stapled tissue can befurther preserved.

In other instances, the ridges on a cartridge deck can be straight orgenerally straight. For example, the staple cartridge 3620, which isshown in FIGS. 49-51, is similar to the staple cartridge 3420 (FIGS.43-45) and like reference characters refer to similar elements. Forexample, the staple cartridge 3620 includes a cartridge body 3624 and adeck 3622. Multiple staple cavities 3628 are defined into the body 3624of the depicted staple cartridge 3620, and each staple cavity 3628 formsan opening 3630 in the deck 3622. Additionally, the staple cavities 3628shown in FIGS. 49-51 match the arrangement of staple cavities 3528depicted in FIGS. 46-48. For example, in the depicted staple cartridge3620, a longitudinal slot 3632 is defined partially through thecartridge body 3624, and three rows of staple cavities 3628 arepositioned on either side of the longitudinal slot 3632. The arrangementof staple cavities 3628 shown in FIGS. 46-48 is configured to receive anarray of angled staples. For example, multiple staples, such as staples3612 (FIG. 51) are removably positioned in the staple cavities 3628.

The deck 3622 disclosed in FIGS. 49-51 includes multiple longitudinallyextending portions. For example, the depicted deck 3622 includes a firstlongitudinal portion 3622 a, a second longitudinal portion 3622 b, and athird longitudinal portion 3622 c on one side of the longitudinal slot3632, and a fourth longitudinal portion 3622 d, a fifth longitudinalportion 3622 e, and a sixth longitudinal portion 3622 f on the otherside of the longitudinal slot 3632. As shown in FIGS. 49-51, alongitudinal row of staple cavities 3628 is aligned with eachlongitudinally extending portion 3622 a, 3622 b, 3622 c, 3622 d, 3622 e,3622 f. Additionally, in the depicted staple cartridge 3620, theadjacent longitudinal portions 3622 a, 3622 b, 3622 c, 3622 d, 3622 e,and 3622 f are vertically offset from each other by a ridge 3623.

The ridges 3623 disclosed in FIGS. 49-51 extend along different pathsthan the ridges 3423 of the deck 3422 (FIGS. 43-45) and the ridges 3523of the deck 3522 (FIGS. 46-48). For example, the ridges 3623 extendalong straight paths, which extend parallel to the longitudinal slot3632. Moreover, a portion of the longitudinal ridges 3523 extend throughstaple cavities 3628 in the staple cartridge 3620. As a result, one endor side of a staple cavity 3628 is positioned in one of the longitudinaldeck portions 3622 a, 3622 b, 3622 c, 3622 d, 3622 e, or 3622 f, and theother end or side of the same staple cavity 3628 is positioned inanother of the longitudinal deck portions 3622 a, 3622 b, 3622 c, 3622d, 3622 e, or 3622 f.

As further described herein, the ridges 3623 disclosed in FIGS. 49-51can affect a lateral variation in tissue compression. For example, thedegrees of tissue compression can be selected and/or optimized to reducestress and/or trauma to the compressed tissue. Moreover, because thestaple cartridge 3620 is configured to fire a longitudinally flexiblearray of staples 3612, the integrity of the stapled tissue can befurther preserved.

In certain instances, the staple cartridge 3620 includes multi-stapledrivers, such as the multi-staple drivers 3640 disclosed in FIG. 51.Each multi-staple driver 3640 is configured to fire the staples 3612from a group of staple cavities 3628. For example, similar to themulti-staple drivers 2040 a, 2040 b (FIGS. 7-9), the multi-stapledrivers 3640 include three steps 3645, and a trough or cradle 3642 isdefined into each step 3645. Additionally, the steps 3645 of themulti-staple drivers 3640 are connected by a connecting flange 3648.Each multi-staple driver 3640 shown in FIG. 51 supports staples 3612across multiple rows of staple cavities 3628, and is configured to firestaples 3612 from staples cavities 3628 in multiple rows. In FIG. 51,the height of each step 3645 and the depth of each cradle 3642 definedtherein is the same, such that the staples 3612 formed between the steps3645 and a staple forming surface on the anvil have the same formedheight.

As further described herein, it may be desirable to customize and/oroptimize the formed staple height to affect varied tissue compressionwithin formed staples. Accordingly, at least one of the multi-stapledrivers 3640 can be modified to form staples 3612 of different formedheights. For example, the steps 3645 and/or the cradles 3642 of a staplemulti-staple driver 3640 can be modified to have different dimensions,such that at least two of the staples 3612 formed by the modifiedmulti-staple driver 3640 have different formed heights. In otherinstances, the steps 3645 and/or the cradles 3642 of different stapledrivers 3640 can be modified, such that a first driver 3640 isconfigured to form staples 3612 having a first formed height and asecond driver 3640 is configured to form staples having a second,different formed height 3612.

In still other instances, the staple cartridge 3620 may includesingle-staple drivers. Alternatively, the staple cartridge 3620 may notinclude drivers. For example, a firing member and/or sled, such as thefiring member 2660 and/or the sled 2658 (FIG. 37), for example, can beconfigured to directly contact, engage, and/or drive the staples 3612.In various instances, the drivers 3640 and/or the staples 3612 can bemass balanced relative to the firing path(s) of a sled, such as sled2058 (FIG. 7) and/or sled 2658 (FIG. 37), for example.

As described herein, to customize and/or optimize the tissue compressionwithin a formed staple, staples in a staple array can be formed todifferent formed heights. For example, in various instances, it isdesirable to vary tissue compression, and thus the formed stapledimensions, laterally. In such circumstances, tissue closer to the cutline can be compressed more than tissue farther from the cut line, forexample. Various staple arrays having different unformed heights and/ordifferent formed heights are described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,866,528,entitled STAPLE DRIVE ASSEMBLY, which issued on Jan. 1, 2011; U.S. Pat.No. 7,726,537, entitled SURGICAL STAPLER WITH UNIVERSAL ARTICULATION ANDTISSUE PRE-CLAMP, which issued on Jun. 1, 2010; U.S. Pat. No. 7,641,091,entitled STAPLE DRIVE ASSEMBLY, which issued on Jan. 5, 2010; U.S. Pat.No. 7,635,074, entitled STAPLE DRIVE ASSEMBLY, which issued on Dec. 22,2009; and U.S. Pat. No. 7,997,469, entitled STAPLE DRIVE ASSEMBLY, whichissued on Aug. 16, 2011, which are hereby incorporated by referenceherein in their respective entireties.

Referring again to FIGS. 49-51, in various instances, the staplecartridge 3620 can be employed with an end effector that is configuredto deform the staples 3612 to different formed heights. The angledstaple cavities 3628 in the staple cartridge 3620 are arranged in aplurality of rows. For example, angled the staple cavities 3628 arearranged in a first outer row, a first intermediate row, and a firstinner row on a first side of the staple cartridge 3620, and the angledstaple cavities 3628 are arranged in a second outer row, a secondintermediate row, and a second inner row on a second side of the staplecartridge 3620. In various instances, the staples 3612 fired from thestaple cavities 3628 in the first outer row can assume a taller formedheight than the staples 2612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in thefirst intermediate row, and/or the staples 3612 fired from the staplecavities 3628 in the first intermediate row can assume a taller formedheight than the staples 2612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in thefirst inner row. Additionally or alternatively, the staples 3612 firedfrom the staple cavities 3628 in the second outer row can assume ataller formed height than the staples 2612 fired from the staplecavities 3628 in the second intermediate row, and/or the staples 3612fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the second intermediate row canassume a taller formed height than the staples 2612 fired from thestaple cavities 3628 in the second inner row.

In certain instances, the staples 3612 fired from the staple cartridge3620 can have different unformed heights. For example, the staples 3612fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the first outer row can have agreater unformed height than the staples 2612 fired from the staplecavities 3628 in the first intermediate row, and/or the staples 3612fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the first intermediate row canhave a greater unformed height than the staples 2612 fired from thestaple cavities 3628 in the first inner row. Additionally oralternatively, the staples 3612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 inthe second outer row can have a greater unformed height than the staples2612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the second intermediate row,and/or the staples 3612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in thesecond intermediate row can have a greater unformed height than thestaples 2612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the second innerrow.

In various instances, staple arrays having different unformed heightsand/or different formed heights can be incorporated into various staplecartridges described herein. For example, the staple cartridge 3420(FIGS. 43-45) and/or the staple cartridge 3520 (46-48) can includestaples having different unformed heights and/or can be configured tofire staples to different formed heights. In such instances, the steppedcartridge decks 3422 (FIGS. 43-45), 3522 (FIGS. 46-48), and 3622 (FIGS.49-51) can affect variable pre-firing tissue compression, for example,and the different formed staple heights can affect variable post-firingtissue compression, for example.

As described herein, angled staple arrays provide improved flexibilityto the stapled tissue. A staple that is angled relative to the cut lineand/or the longitudinal axis of staple cartridge can have one staple legcloser to the cut line than another staple leg. In such an arrangement,to customize and/or optimize the tissue compression laterally, thestaple can be formed to different formed heights. For example, one endof a staple can be formed to a first height, and the other end of thestaple can be formed to a second, different height. In such instances,tissue treated by the same row of staples could be subjected todifferent compressive forces.

A staple cartridge 3720 and an anvil 3703 are depicted in FIG. 79. Thestaple cartridge 3720 is similar to the staple cartridge 3620 (FIGS.49-51) and like reference characters refer to similar elements. Forexample, the staple cartridge 3720 includes a cartridge body 3724 and adeck 3722. The deck 3722 includes multiple longitudinally extendingportions 3722 a, 3722 b, 3722 c, and adjacent longitudinal portions 3722a, 3722 b, 3722 c are separated by a ridge 3723. The ridges 3723 extendlongitudinally along at least a portion of the length of the cartridgebody 3722. An angled staple cavity 3728 is defined into the cartridgebody 3724, and a ridge 3723 extends through the staple cavity 3728. As aresult, the first end of the depicted staple cavity 3728 is positionedin the first longitudinal portion 3722 a and the second end of thedepicted staple cartridge 3728 is positioned in the second longitudinalportion 3722 b. Additionally, a longitudinal slot 3732 is definedpartially through the depicted cartridge body 3724.

In various instances, the staple cartridge 3720 can include multiplestaple cavities 3728, which are configured to receive an array of angledstaples 3712. For example, the staple cartridge 3720 can include anarrangement of staple cavities 3728 that corresponds to the arrangementof staple cavities 3628 depicted in FIGS. 49-51. In certain instances,three rows of staple cavities 3728 can be positioned on both sides ofthe longitudinal slot 3732, for example.

An unformed staple 3712 and a deformed staple 3712′ are depicted in FIG.79. The staple 3712 includes a base 3714, a first leg 3716 extendingfrom the base 3714, and a second leg 3718 extending from the base 3714.A driver 3740 is also depicted in FIG. 79. The driver 3740 includes atrough or cradle 3742, which is configured to support the base 3714 ofthe staple 3712. The driver 3740 and the cradle 3742 defined thereinhave a variable height between a first end 3741 and a second end 3743 ofthe driver 3740. For example, the first end 3741 of the driver 3740defines a first height and the second end 3743 of the driver 3740defines a second height, which is less than the first height.

As the driver 3740 is fired and lifted within the staple cavity 3728,the staple 3712 rides upward on the lifting driver 3740 and is deformedby the staple forming pockets 3705 of the anvil 3703. The formed staple3712′ is also depicted in FIG. 79. The formed height of the staple 3712′is a function of the distance or gap between the lifted driver 3740 andthe staple forming pockets 3705 of the anvil 3703. Because the distancebetween the staple-supporting surface 3742 of the lifted driver 3740 andthe staple forming pockets 3705 varies in the staple cartridge 3720disclosed in FIG. 79, the formed staple 3712′ has a variable height. Forexample, the height of formed staple 3712′ is greater between the firstleg 3716′ and the base 3714′ than between the second leg 3718′ and thebase 3714′. In various instances, the angular orientation of the staple3712′ can place the first leg 3716′ farther from the longitudinal slot3732 than the second leg 3718′. In such instances, the first leg 3716′can be an outer leg of the staple 3712′ and the second leg 3718′ can bean inner leg of the staple 3712′. In such an arrangement, the tissuecompression can be greater between the inner leg 3718′ and the base3714′ than between the outer leg 3716′ and the base 3714′.

Staple cartridge and anvil arrangements that are configured to deformangled staples to different formed heights, like the staple cartridge3720 and the anvil 3705, for example, could be incorporated into otherembodiments disclosed herein. For example, drivers having a variableheight staple-supporting cradle, like the drivers 2740, for example,could be incorporated into other staple cartridge and/or end effectorassemblies disclosed herein.

The unformed staple 3712 depicted in FIG. 79 also has a variable height.For example, the staple 3712 defines a first height at the first leg3716 and a second height at the second leg 3718, which is less than thefirst height. Additionally, the base 3714 of the staple 3712 defines abend or step 3715, which lifts the second leg 3718 relative to the firstleg 3716.

In other instances, the unformed staple 3712 may have a uniform height.Additionally or alternatively, the base 3714 of the unformed staple 3712may be straight, or generally straight, between the first leg 3716 andthe second leg 3718. In such instances, the staple 3712 may still assumea variable formed height when the distance between the staple-supportingsurface 3742 of the lifted driver 3740 and the staple forming pockets3705 is variable. For example, one of the staple legs 3716, 3718 can bemore deformed and/or compacted than the other staple leg 3716, 3718 toaccommodate for the additional leg length. Additionally, because thedistance between the staple-supporting surface 3742 and the stapleforming pockets 3705 varies, the base 3714 can be bent and/or otherwisedeformed during firing to accommodate for the height difference.

A staple cartridge 3820 and an anvil 3803 are depicted in FIG. 80. Thestaple cartridge 3820 is similar to the staple cartridge 3620 (FIGS.49-51) and like reference characters refer to similar elements. Forexample, the staple cartridge 3820 includes a cartridge body 3824 and adeck 3822. Unlike the deck 3622 (FIGS. 49-51), the deck 3822 has a flat,or generally flat, unstepped surface. An angled staple cavity 3828 isdefined into the cartridge body 3824. Additionally, a longitudinal slot3832 is defined partially through the depicted cartridge body 3824.

In various instances, the staple cartridge 3820 can include multiplestaple cavities 3828, which are configured to receive an array of angledstaples. For example, the staple cartridge 3820 can include anarrangement of staple cavities that corresponds to the arrangement ofstaple cavities 3628 depicted in FIGS. 49-51. In certain instances,three rows of staple cavities 3828 can be positioned on either side ofthe longitudinal slot 3832, for example.

An unformed staple 3812 is depicted in FIG. 80. The staple 3812 includesa base 3814, a first leg 3816 extending from the base 3814, and a secondleg 3818 extending from the base 3814. A driver 3840 is also depicted inFIG. 80. The driver 3840 includes a trough or cradle 3842, which isconfigured to support the base 3814 of the staple 3812.

The anvil 3803 includes a laterally stepped, cartridge-facing surface3801. A first staple forming pocket 3805 a and a second staple formingpocket 3805 b are defined into the stepped surface 3801. As depicted inFIG. 80, the first staple forming pocket 3805 a is in a first step 3801a of the stepped surface 3801 and the second staple forming pocket 3805b is in a second step 3801 b of the stepped surface 3801.

As the driver 3840 is fired and lifted within the staple cavity 3828,the staple 3812 rides upward on the lifting driver 3840 and is deformedby the staple forming pockets 3805 a, 3805 b of the anvil 3803. Theformed staple 3812′ is also depicted in FIG. 80. The formed height ofthe staple 3812′ is a function of the distance or gap between the lifteddriver 3840 and the staple forming pockets 3805 a, 3805 b of the anvil3803. Because the distance between the staple-supporting surface 3842 ofthe lifted driver 3840 and each staple forming pockets 3805 a, 3805 b isdifferent in the staple cartridge 3720 depicted in FIG. 79, the formedstaple 3812′ assumes a variable height. For example, the height offormed staple 3812′ is greater between the first leg 3816′ and the base3814′ than between the second leg 3818′ and the base 3814′. In variousinstances, the angular orientation of the staple 3812′ can place thefirst leg 3816′ farther from the longitudinal slot 3832 than the secondleg 3818′. In such instances, the first leg 3816′ can be an outer leg ofthe staple 3812′ and the second leg 3818′ can be an inner leg of thestaple 3812′. In such an arrangement, the tissue compression can begreater between the inner leg 3818′ and the base 3814′ than between theouter leg 3816′ and the base 3814′.

In other instances, the staple 3812′ can be deformed to a smaller heightat the outer leg 3816′. As a result, the tissue compression could begreater between the outer leg 3816′ and the base 3814′ than between theinner leg 3818′ and the base 3814′.

Staple cartridge and anvil arrangements that are configured to deformangled staples to different formed heights, like the staple cartridge3820 and the anvil 3805 a, 3805 b, for example, could be incorporatedinto other embodiments disclosed herein. For example, variable depthpockets, like pockets 3805 a, 3805 b, for example, could be incorporatedinto other embodiments disclosed herein.

The unformed staple 3812 depicted in FIG. 80 has a variable height. Forexample, the staple 3812 defines a first height at the first leg 3816and a second height at the second leg 3818, which is less than the firstheight.

In other instances, the unformed staple 3812 may have a uniform height.In such instances, the staple 3812 may still assume a variable formedheight when the distance between the staple-supporting surface 3842 ofthe lifted driver 3840 and the staple forming pockets 3805 is variable.For example, one of the staple legs 3816, 3818 can be more deformedand/or compacted than the other staple leg 3816, 3818 to accommodate forthe additional length.

In certain types of surgical procedures, the use of surgical staples orsurgical fasteners has become the preferred method of joining tissue,and, specially configured surgical staplers or circular surgicalfastening devices have been developed for these applications. Forexample, intra-luminal or circular staplers have been developed for usein surgical procedures used to form an “anastomosis”. Circular staplersuseful to perform an anastomosis are disclosed, for example, in U.S.Pat. No. 5,104,025, entitled INTRALUMINAL ANASTOMOTIC SURGICAL STAPLERWITH DETACHED ANVIL, U.S. Pat. No. 5,309,927, entitled CIRCULAR STAPLERTISSUE RETENTION SPRING METHOD, U.S. Pat. No. 7,665,647, entitledSURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING DEVICE WITH CLOSURE APPARATUS FOR LIMITINGMAXIMUM TISSUE COMPRESSION FORCE, U.S. Pat. No. 8,668,130, entitledSURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS AND STAPLE CARTRIDGES FOR DEPLOYING SURGICALSTAPLES WITH TISSUE COMPRESSION FEATURES, the entire disclosures of eachbeing hereby incorporated by reference herein.

One form of an “anastomosis” comprises a surgical procedure whereinsections of intestine are joined together after a connecting section(usually a diseased section) has been excised. The procedure requiresjoining the ends of two tubular sections together to form a continuoustubular pathway. Previously, this surgical procedure was a laborious andtime consuming operation. The surgeon had to precisely cut and align theends of the intestine and maintain the alignment while joining the endswith numerous suture stitches. The development of circular fasteningdevices has greatly simplified the anastomosis procedure and has alsodecreased the time required to perform an anastomosis.

In general, a conventional circular stapler or fastening device consistsof an elongated shaft that includes a proximal actuating mechanism and adistal stapling mechanism that is mounted to the shaft. The distalstapling mechanism typically consists of a fixed stapling cartridge thatcontains a plurality of staples that are arranged in a concentriccircular array. A round cutting knife is also concentrically mounted inthe cartridge such that it is interior to the staples. The knife isaxially moveable in a distal direction. Extending axially from thecenter of the cartridge is a trocar shaft. The trocar shaft is alsoaxially moveable within the elongated shaft. The trocar shaft isconfigured to be removably attached to an anvil member. The anvil memberincludes a staple-forming undersurface that is arranged to confront thestaple cartridge for forming the ends of the staples as they areadvanced into contact with it. The distance between the distal face ofthe staple cartridge and the staple forming undersurface of the anvil iscontrolled by an adjustment mechanism that is mounted to the proximalend of the stapler shaft. Tissue that is contained between the staplecartridge and the staple anvil is simultaneously stapled and cut whenthe actuating mechanism is actuated by the surgeon.

When performing an anastomosis using a circular stapler, the intestineis typically initially stapled using a conventional surgical staplerwith double rows of staples being emplaced on either side of a targetsection (i.e., the diseased section or specimen) of intestine. Thetarget section is typically simultaneously cut as the section isstapled. Next, after removing the specimen, the surgeon typicallyinserts the anvil into the proximal end of the lumen (i.e., intestine),proximal of the staple line. This is done by inserting the anvil headinto an entry port cut into the proximal lumen (intestine) by thesurgeon. On occasion, the anvil can be placed transanally, by placingthe anvil head on the distal end of the stapler and inserting theinstrument through the rectum. The proximal end of the intestine is thensutured to the anvil shaft using a suture or other conventional tyingdevice. Next, the surgeon cuts excess tissue adjacent to the tie and thesurgeon attaches the anvil to the trocar shaft of the stapler. Thesurgeon then closes the gap between the anvil and cartridge by drawingthe anvil towards the staple cartridge. As the anvil moves toward thecartridge, the proximal and distal ends of the intestine are clampedtherebetween. The stapler is then actuated causing the rows of staplesto be driven through both ends of the intestine into forming contactwith the anvil. Simultaneously, as the staples are driven and formed,the circular blade is driven through the intestinal tissue ends, cuttingthe ends adjacent to the inner row of staples. The surgeon thenwithdraws the stapler from the intestine and the anastomosis iscomplete.

The effective healing of a colorectal anastomosis can be challenged byseveral factors and conditions. For example, healing can be effected bythe presence of bacterial contaminates in the area of the anastomosis.In general practice, the success rate of the anastomosis tends toimprove with the patient's return to mobility. It is desirable for thepatient to return to contents passing as soon as possible. One inhibitorto contents passing is the risk of “stricture”. If the colon contentsare unable to pass the staple line or if they dramatically stress thestaple line, a tear, rupture or leak can occur. A linear expandable lineof staples was developed for highly expanding organs like the lungs.However, such staple configurations do not lend themselves to use inconnection with a circular stapler.

FIG. 29 illustrates one form of circular stapler or stapling devicegenerally designated as 5000. A variety of circular stapling devices arewell known and employed for installing surgical staples or fasteners.Thus, various details concerning the construction and operation ofcircular stapling devices will not be discussed in detail herein beyondwhat may be necessary to understand the innovations and arrangementsdisclosed herein and depicted in the appended Figures. More detailsregarding circular fastener and stapling devices may be found in U.S.Pat. No. 7,665,647, entitled SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING DEVICE WITHCLOSURE APPARATUS FOR LIMITING MAXIMUM TISSUE COMPRESSION FORCE, whichhas been incorporated herein in its entirety as well as other U.S.patents incorporated by reference herein. In general, the circularstapling device 5000 shown in FIG. 29 includes a head 5002, an anvil5004, an adjustment knob assembly 5006 and a handle 5010 that supports atrigger 5008 thereon. The handle assembly 5010 is coupled to the head5002 by an arcuate shaft assembly 5012. In the illustrated arrangement,the trigger 5008 is pivotally supported by handle assembly 5010 and isused to operate the stapler 5000 when a safety mechanism (notillustrated) is released. When trigger 5008 is activated, a firingmechanism is movably advanced within the shaft assembly 5012 so thatstaples or fasteners are expelled, or deployed, from the head 5002 intoforming contact with an anvil forming undersurface 5005 of the anvil5004. Simultaneously, a circular knife (not viewable in FIG. 29) that isoperably supported within head 5002 is advanced distally toward theanvil 5004 and serves to cut the tissue that has been clamped betweenthe head 5002 and anvil 5004 in a known manner. Stapling device 5000 isthen removed from the surgical site leaving the stapled tissue in place.

As can also be seen in FIG. 29, the anvil 5004 includes circular bodyportion 5014 that has an anvil shaft 5016 protruding therefrom. Theanvil shaft 5016 is configured to be removably attached to a trocarshaft 5050 operably supported within the shaft assembly 5012. See FIG.29A. As is known, the trocar shaft 5050 is movably supported with theshaft assembly 5012 and operably interfaces with the adjustment knobassembly 5006 that is rotatably supported on the handle assembly 5010.The anvil shaft 5016 may be removably attached to the trocar shaft 5050by retention clips 5052 or other releasable fastening arrangements mayalso be employed to removably affix the anvil shaft 5016 to the trocarshaft 5050. Once the anvil shaft 5016 has been attached to the trocarshaft 5050, the clinician can move the anvil 5004 toward and away formthe head 5002 by rotating the adjustment knob 5006 in the appropriaterotary direction.

FIG. 29A illustrates a head 5002 that has a unique and novel fastenercartridge assembly 5020 operably mounted therein. As can be seen in thatFigure, the fastener cartridge assembly 5020 includes a cartridge body5022 that includes a circular deck 5030. The circular deck 5030 may forma planar surface 5032 that is arranged to confront the staple formingundersurface 5005 of the anvil 5004 when the anvil shaft 5016 isattached to the trocar shaft 5050. A plurality of fastener cavities 5040are provided in the circular deck 5030 and are configured to receive atleast one surgical staple or surgical fastener therein (not shown) thatis operably supported on a driver assembly 5060 movably supported in thebody 5022 of the fastener cartridge assembly 5020. The driver assembly5060 is operably coupled to a corresponding movable portion of the shaftassembly 5012 that operably interfaces with the trigger 5008. Activationof the trigger 5008, for example, will result in the axial movement ofthe driver assembly 5060 in the distal direction “DD”. Movement of thedriver assembly 5060 in the distal direction “DD” will result in themovement or expulsion of the surgical staple(s) or fastener(s) supportedin each fastener cavity 5040 into forming contact with the stapleforming undersurface 5005 on the anvil 5004.

Still referring to FIG. 29A, for example, each fastener cavity 5040includes two cavity ends 5042, 5044. In the illustrated arrangement,each cavity end 5042, which may also be referred to herein as a “firstcavity end” is positioned on a first circular axis “FCA” that has afirst radius “FR”. The first radius “FR” may be measured from theinstrument shaft axis “SA”. Also in the illustrated arrangement, eachcavity end 5044, which may also be referred to herein as a “secondcavity end” is positioned on a second circular axis “SCA” that has asecond radius “SR” that is different from the first radius “FR”. In theillustrated example, the second radius “SR”, which is also measured fromthe shaft axis “SA”, is greater than the first radius “FR”. Also in theillustrated embodiment, each fastener cavity 5040 includes a cavity axis“CA”. In the illustrated embodiment, each fastener cavity 5040 isarranged in the circular deck 5030 relative to the first circular axis“FCA” and the second circular axis “SCA” such that each the cavity axis“CA” forms an acute angle with the first circular axis “FCA” and thesecond circular axis “SCA”. Stated another way, the cavity ends 5042 ofadjacent fastener cavities 5040 are adjacent to each other and the ends5044 of the same fastener cavities 5040 are spaced form each other. Sucharrangement may be referred to herein as a “zigzag” orientation. Inother arrangements, however, the cavity axis “CA” may be perpendicularto the first and second circular axes “FCA” and “SCA”.

In the arrangement illustrated in FIG. 29A, each cavity end 5042, 5044may be V-shaped such that they generally terminate in a point. Forexample, each cavity end 5042 may generally terminate in a point 5043and each end 5044 may terminate in a point 5045. Points 5043 may bepositioned on or intersect with the first circular axis “FCA” and points5045 may be positioned on or intersect with the second circular axis“SCA”. Such cavity arrangements result in the application of thesurgical staples or fasteners in a similar pattern with the tissue. Inthe illustrated arrangement, the fastener cavities 5040 each support onesurgical staple or surgical fastener therein. In other arrangements,however, more than one staple or fastener may be supported in eachcavity. The fastener cartridge assembly 5020 employs like-sized staplesin each fastener cavity 5040. In other arrangements, different sizes ofsurgical staples or fasteners may be employed in the fastener cartridgeassembly. The surgical staples that may be employed, for example,include two staple legs that extend from a central body portion orcrown. The legs maybe received in the V-shaped ends 5042, 5044 of thefastener cavity 5040 such that when they are ejected out of the cavity5040, the legs extend through the first or second circular axes, whichever the case may be. These staple orientations may address some of theconcerns associated with staple stricture discussed above. Inparticular, the staple configuration formed when employing the fastenercartridge assembly 5020 may allow the staple line to expand and flexmore like the original colon than a common staple line. For example, thestaples or fasteners may twist as they are pulled radially allowing themto minimize the stress on the healing zones and maximize the flexibilityand strength.

Another area of concern associated with colorectal anastomosisprocedures relates to radial leakage through the attachment areas. Theabove-described fastener cartridge assembly 5020 may also address thisarea of concern. Another fastener cartridge assembly 5120 is shown inFIG. 30 and may also address the various problems and concerns describedabove. As can be seen in that Figure, the fastener cavities arearrangement in an “asymmetric pattern” wherein the staples appliedthrough the inner ring or inner circular array of cavities functiondifferently from those staples or fasteners applied through the outerring or outer circular array of cavities.

More specifically and with reference to FIG. 30, the fastener cartridgeassembly 5120 includes a cartridge body 5122 that includes a circulardeck 5130. The circular deck 5130 may form a planar surface 5132 that isarranged to confront the staple forming undersurface 5005 of the anvil5004 when the anvil shaft 5016 is attached to the trocar shaft 5050. Afirst ring 5036 of first cavities 5040 are provided in the circular deck5130 and a second ring 5160 of second cavities 5170 are provided throughthe cartridge deck 5130 as shown. Each of the first and second cavities5040, 5170 are configured to receive at least one surgical staple orsurgical fastener therein (not shown) that is operably supported on adriver assembly 5060 movably supported in the body 5122 of the fastenercartridge assembly 5120.

Each fastener cavity 5040 includes two cavity ends 5042, 5044. Eachcavity end 5042 is positioned on a first circular axis “FCA” that has afirst radius “FR”. The first radius “FR” may be measured from theinstrument shaft axis “SA”. Each cavity end 5044 is positioned on asecond circular axis “SCA” that has a second radius “SR” that isdifferent from the first radius “FR”. In the illustrated example, thesecond radius “SR”, which is also measured from the shaft axis “SA”, isgreater than the first radius “FR”. Each fastener cavity 5040 includes acavity axis “CA”. In the illustrated embodiment, each fastener cavity5040 is arranged in the circular deck 5130 relative to the firstcircular axis “FCA” and the second circular axis “SCA” such that eachthe cavity axis “CA” forms an acute angle with the first circular axis“FCA” and the second circular axis “SCA”. Stated another way, the cavityends 5042 of adjacent fastener cavities 5040 are adjacent to each otherand the ends 5044 of the same fastener cavities 5040 are spaced formeach other. Such arrangement may be referred to herein as a “zigzag”orientation. In other arrangements, however, the cavity axis “CA” may beperpendicular to the first and second circular axes “FCA”, “SCA”.

Also in the arrangement illustrated in FIG. 30, each cavity end 5042,5044 may be V-shaped such that they generally terminate in a point. Forexample, each cavity end 5042 may generally terminate in a point 5043and each end 5044 may generally terminate in a point 5045. Points 5043may be positioned on or intersect with the first circular axis “FCA” andpoints 5045 may be positioned on or intersect with the second circularaxis “SCA”. Such cavity arrangements result in the application of thesurgical staples or fasteners in a similar pattern with the tissue. Alsoin the illustrated arrangement, the second ring 5160 includes aplurality of second fastener cavities 5170 that are aligned on a thirdcircular axis “TCA” that is arranged at a third radius “TR” from theshaft axis “SA”. In the illustrated arrangement, the third radius “TR”is less that the first and second radiuses. In other arrangements,however, the third radius “TR” is greater than the first radius. Infurther arrangements, however, the third radius “TR” is greater than thefirst and second radiuses.

The unique and novel fastener cartridge assembly 5120 serves to orientthe staples or fasteners in the tissue such that they would be “tunable”relative to the amount of expansion applied to the staple line. Thesurgical staples that may be employed, for example, include two staplelegs that extend from a central body portion or crown. The legs maybereceived in the V-shaped ends of the fastener cavity such that when theyare ejected out of the cavity, the legs extend through the firstcircular axis “FCA”, the second circular axis “SCA” or the thirdcircular axis “TCA”, whichever the case may be. These stapleorientations may result in an improvement to the issues associated withstaple stricture discussed above. For example, one ring of staples orfasteners (e.g., the second ring 5160) provides the standard sealingfeatures and the first ring 5036 may be more aligned to the radial andflexibility aspects of the staple line. Such arrangement therefore, mayalso provide the same or similar advantages discussed above with respectto fastener cartridge assembly 5020.

FIG. 31 depicts another unique and novel fastener cartridge assembly5220 that may also address the various problems and concerns describedabove. As can be seen in that Figure, the fastener cavities arearrangement in an “asymmetric pattern” wherein the staples appliedthrough the inner ring of cavities function differently from thosestaples or fasteners applied through the outer ring of cavities.

More specifically and with reference to FIG. 31, the fastener cartridgeassembly 5220 includes a cartridge body 5222 that includes a circulardeck 5230. The circular deck 5230 may form a planar surface 5232 that isarranged to confront the staple forming undersurface 5005 of the anvil5004 when the anvil shaft 5016 is attached to the trocar shaft 5050. Afirst ring 5236 of first cavities 5240 are provided in the circular deck5230 and a second ring 5260 of second cavities 5270 are provided throughthe cartridge deck 5230 as shown. Each of the first and second cavities5240, 5270 are configured to receive at least one surgical staple orsurgical fastener therein (not shown) that is operably supported on adriver assembly 5060 that is movably supported in the body 5222 of thefastener cartridge assembly 5220.

Each fastener cavity 5240 includes two cavity ends 5242, 5244. Eachcavity end 5242 is positioned on a first circular axis “FCA” that has afirst radius “FR”. The first radius “FR” may be measured from theinstrument shaft axis “SA”. Each cavity end 5244 is positioned on asecond circular axis “SCA” that has a second radius “SR” that isdifferent from the first radius “FR”. In the illustrated example, thesecond radius “SR”, which is also measured from the shaft axis “SA”, isgreater than the first radius “FR”. Each fastener cavity 5240 includes acavity axis “CA”. In the illustrated embodiment, each fastener cavity5240 is arranged in the circular deck 5230 relative to the firstcircular axis “FCA” and the second circular axis “SCA” such that eachthe cavity axis “CA” forms an acute angle with the first circular axis“FCA” and the second circular axis “SCA”.

Also in the arrangement illustrated in FIG. 31, each cavity end 5242,5244 may be V-shaped such that they generally terminate in a point. Forexample, each cavity end 5242 may generally terminate in a point 5243and each end 5244 may generally terminate in a point 5245. Points 5243may be positioned on or intersect with the first circular axis “FCA” andpoints 5245 may be positioned on or intersect with the second circularaxis “SCA”. Such cavity arrangements result in the application of thesurgical staples or fasteners in a similar pattern with the tissue. Alsoin the illustrated arrangement, the second ring 5260 includes aplurality of second fastener cavities 5270 that are aligned on a thirdcircular axis “TCA” that is arranged at a third radius “TR” from theshaft axis “SA”. In the illustrated arrangement, the third radius “TR”is less that the first and second radiuses. In other arrangements,however, the third radius “TR” is greater than the first radius. Infurther arrangements, however, the third radius “TR” is greater than thefirst and second radiuses. These staple orientations may result in animprovement to the issues associated with staple structure discussedabove. In particular, the staple configuration formed when employing thefastener cartridge assembly 5220 may allow the staple line to expand andflex more like the original colon than a common staple line. Forexample, the staples or fasteners may twist as they are pulled radiallyallowing them to minimize the stress on the healing zones and maximizethe flexibility and strength.

Adjunct films/buttress materials have been shown to improve hemostasisand pneumostasis by sealing around the staple tips. In manyapplications, buttress material is employed to stiffen and/or strengthensoft tissue. A variety of buttress material arrangements have beendeveloped and configured for arrangement on the surgical staplecartridge or the anvil of the surgical stapling device. Attaching thebuttress member to the cartridge or anvil and then releasing thebuttress material therefrom can be challenging. FIG. 58 illustrates asurgical end effector 5300 and portions of a surgical cutting andfastening instrument 5400. The end effector 5300 employs a unique andnovel arrangement for attaching a buttress member 5500 to the surgicalstaple cartridge 5320 and releasing it therefrom. Examples of surgicalcutting and fastening instruments of the type depicted in FIG. 58 aredisclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/318,991, entitledSURGICAL FASTENER CARTRIDGES WITH DRIVER STABILIZING ARRANGEMENTS, filedon Jun. 30, 2014, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporatedby reference herein. Further details beyond those which are required tounderstand the construction and use of the end effector 5300 may begleaned from reference to that document as well as the numerous otherdocuments incorporated by reference therein.

As can be seen in FIG. 58, the end effector 5300 depicted thereinincludes an elongate staple channel 5302 that is configured to operablysupport a staple cartridge 5320 therein. The elongate staple channel5302 is coupled to a spine portion 5404 that is operably supportedwithin an elongate shaft assembly 5402 of the surgical staplinginstrument 5400. The staple cartridge 5320 includes a cartridge body5322 that may be fabricated from a polymer material. In the illustratedembodiment, a metal bottom tray 5324 is attached to the cartridge body5322. The cartridge body 5322 includes a deck 5330 that has a pluralityof staple cavities 5332 defined therein. Each staple cavity 5332 isconfigured to removably store a staple therein. The cartridge body 5322further includes a longitudinal slot that is configured to removablyreceive a firing member 5410 therein. The cartridge body 5320 canfurther comprise a distal end 5326, a proximal end 5328, and opposinglongitudinal sides 5329 extending between the distal end 5326 and theproximal end 5328. In various instances, each longitudinal side 5329 cancomprise a contiguous or continuous edge without interruptions definedtherein.

Located within each staple cavity 5332 is a staple 5342 that issupported on a corresponding staple driver 5340 that is movablysupported within the cartridge body 5322. The staple drivers 5340 arelifted upwardly when the firing member 5410 is driven distally throughthe staple cartridge 5320. As discussed in further detail in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/318,991, the firing member 5410 is configured toadvance a staple sled 5350 distally to lift the staple drivers 5340 andthe staples 5342 upward and out of the staple cavity 5332. The endeffector 5300 further includes an anvil 5360 that is mounted to theelongate staple channel 5302. In the illustrated embodiment, the anvil5360 includes a pair of trunnions 5362 that are movably received intrunnion slots 5304 in the elongate staple channel 5302. As can befurther seen in FIG. 58, the anvil 5360 includes an anvil tab 5364 thatinteracts with a closure tube segment 5420. Movement of the closure tubesegment 5420 in the distal direction “DD” can move the anvil 5360 in adirection toward the staple cartridge 5320. Movement of the closure tube5420 in the proximal direction “PD” causes the anvil to move away fromthe staple cartridge 5320. Other embodiments may employ a cartridge andanvil arrangement wherein the anvil is stationary (e.g., non-movablyaffixed to the elongate shaft of the surgical device) and the elongatechannel and/or the staple cartridge are movable toward and away from theanvil.

As can be seen in FIGS. 58 and 59, a buttress member 5500 is configuredto be received between the surgical staple cartridge 5320 and the anvil5360. Stated more precisely, the buttress member 5500 is configured tobe received between the staple-forming undersurface 5366 of the anvil5360 and the deck 5330 of the staple cartridge 5320. In the illustratedembodiment, the buttress member 5500 is configured to be mounted intension on the deck 5330 of the staple cartridge 5320. The buttressmaterial comprising the buttress member 5500 may comprise Gore SeamGuardmaterial, Synovis Peri-Strips material, and/or polyurethane, forexample. Other suitable buttress or adjunct materials are disclosed inU.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/318,991, entitled SURGICAL FASTENERCARTRIDGES WITH DRIVER STABILIZING ARRANGEMENTS, filed on Jun. 30, 2014,the entire disclosure of which was previously incorporated by referenceherein. Various other suitable buttress and adjunct materials are alsodisclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/763,095, entitled LAYERARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL STAPLE CARTRIDGES, filed on Feb. 28, 2013, theentire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.The entire disclosures of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/531,619,entitled TISSUE STAPLER HAVING A THICKNESS COMPENSATOR COMPRISINGINCORPORATING A HEMOSTATIC AGENT, filed on Jun. 25, 2012, U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/531,623, entitled TISSUE STAPLER HAVING ATHICKNESS COMPENSATOR INCORPORATING AN OXYGEN GENERATING AGENT, filed onJun. 25, 2012, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/531,627, entitledTISSUE STAPLER HAVING A THICKNESS COMPENSATOR INCORPORATING ANANTI-MICROBIAL AGENT, filed on Jun. 25, 2012, and U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/531,630, entitled TISSUE STAPLER HAVING ATHICKNESS COMPENSATOR INCORPORATING AN ANTI-INFLAMMATORY AGENT, filed onJun. 25, 2012, are also incorporated by reference herein.

In the illustrated embodiment, the staple cartridge 5320 includesprojections 5336 that extend upward from the deck 5330 adjacent eachstaple cavity 5332 in the various manners and arrangements that aredescribed in detail in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/318,991. Inother embodiments, the staple cartridge does not have such projections.In the illustrated embodiment, the buttress member 5500 includes holes5502 therein that correspond to the projections 5336. See, e.g., FIGS.61 and 62. As can be seen in those Figures, however, the holes 5502 onlyaccommodate the projections 5336 such that the buttress material spansthe areas that correspond to at least portions of the crowns of thestaples supported in the cavities. Those portions of buttress materialthat correspond to the staple crown portions are generally identified as5504 in FIGS. 61 and 62.

The buttress member 5500 includes means for releasably affixing thebuttress member 5500 to the cartridge body 5322 such that the buttressmember 5500 is retained thereon in tension prior to the actuation of thesurgical instrument and then is released from the cartridge body 5322when the surgical instrument is actuated or “fired”. For example, as canbe seen in FIG. 58, the buttress member 5500 includes a distal end 5503that has at least one distal retention feature 5506 therein. In theillustrated arrangement, two distal holes 5506 are provided in thedistal end 5503 and are configured to receive corresponding retentionmembers 5338 protruding from the distal end 5326 of the cartridge body5322. As shown in FIGS. 59 and 60, the retention members 5338 areconfigured to be received within the distal holes 5506 in the distal endportion 5503 of the buttress member 5500 to releasably retain the distalend of the buttress member 5500 on the distal end portion 5326 of thecartridge 5320. Other forms of releasable retention members (shapes,numbers, sizes, configurations) and arrangements may also be employed toreleasably retain the buttress member 5500 on the staple cartridge 5320when a tension force is applied to the buttress member 5500 in theproximal and/or distal directions.

Turning to FIGS. 63-65, the buttress member 5500 includes a proximal endportion 5510 that has a proximal retention feature 5511 thereon. In theillustrated embodiment, the proximal retention feature 5511 comprises atleast one retaining tab 5512 that protrudes proximally therefrom. Theretaining tab 5512 is located such that when the holes 5506 are insertedover the retention members 5338 on the cartridge body 5322 and thebuttress member 5500 is received on the cartridge deck 5330, theretaining tab 5512 is aligned with the elongate slot 5334 in thecartridge body 5322. See FIG. 64. The retaining tab 5512 is folded overthe proximal end of the cartridge body and retained within the elongateslot 5334 by the staple sled 5350 when the staple sled 5350 is in itsproximal starting position within the cartridge 5320. The staple sled5350 may be of the type and construction disclosed in U.S. patent Ser.No. 14/318,991 which includes a stabilizing member 5352 that extendsdistally to stabilize the sled 5350 and prevent and/or inhibit therocking or rotation of the staple sled 5350. As can be seen in FIG. 65,the retaining tab 5512 is held within the elongate slot 5534 by thestabilizing member 5352 and/or other portions of the staple sled 5350.Such arrangement serves to retain the buttress member 5500 in tension onthe staple deck 5330. Stated another way, the buttress member 5500 maybe stretched between the retention members 5338 and the proximal end5328 of the staple cartridge 5320. When the clinician actuates thesurgical instrument to commence the firing process, the firing member5410 is advanced distally in the distal direction “DD”. The firingmember 5410 interfaces with the staple sled 5350 and, as discussed inU.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/318,991, the firing member 5410moves the staple sled 5350 distally through the staple cartridge 5320 todrive the staple drivers 5340 upward such that the staples 5342supported thereon are driven into forming contact with the underside5366 of the anvil 5360 and the tissue clamped between the anvil 5360 andthe staple cartridge 5320 is severed by the cutting member 5410. Oncethe staple sled 5350 has moved out of retaining engagement with theretention tab 5512, the retention tab 5512 is released enabling thebuttress material 5500 to be removed from the staple cartridge 5320 withthe stapled tissue. Such arrangement serves to release the tension inthe buttress material 5500 at the beginning of the firing process. Inaddition, such buttress arrangement requires no additional releasingparts or configurations.

Existing stapling technology is not particularly well-suited for use ontissues that experience stretching during the healing process. Forexample, in thoracic parenchymal stapling, the staple lines are fired onlungs in a collapsed configuration. After the procedure is complete, thelung is inflated which often results in the doubling of the surface areaof the lung. Existing stapling technology generally does not have thecapacity to stretch to the same extent as the lung tissue. This mayresult in a dramatic strain gradient in the immediate vicinity of thestaple line which can lead to high stresses within the staple line,particularly in the row of staples furthest from the cut edge. Thus,there is a need for technologies that allow the staple line to stretchand/or increase in length in an effort to relieve the strain gradientand the associated stress to eliminate or at least reduce the potentialsource of air leaks.

Adjunct films/buttress materials have been shown to improve hemostasisand pneumostasis by sealing around the staple tips. In manyapplications, buttress material is employed to stiffen and/or strengthensoft tissue. However, existing buttress materials may not besufficiently elastic so as not to impede the compliance of the elasticstaple line. FIGS. 66-68 illustrate one form of buttress material 6100that may address such issues. As can be seen in those Figures, thebuttress material 6100 includes a buttress body 6102 that is sized to beoperably received on a deck 6004 of a surgical staple cartridge 6000. Inthe illustrated example, the surgical staple cartridge 6000 includes acartridge body 6002 that defines the deck 6004. The cartridge body 6002includes a centrally disposed, elongate slot 6006 that is configured toreceive a tissue cutting member (not shown) therethrough. A plurality ofstaple pockets or staple cavities is provided in the deck 6004 on eachside of the elongate slot 6006. As shown, first rows 6010 of firstcavities 6012 are provided on each side of the elongate slot 6006. Thefirst cavities 6012 in each first row 6010 are parallel to each other.Each of the first cavities 6012 is arranged at an angle relative to theelongate slot 6006 and is adjacent thereto. The illustrated cartridgebody 6002 further includes two rows 6020 of second staple cavities 6022that are arranged at angles relative to the first staple cavities 6012.Two rows 6030 of third staple cavities 6032 are also provided in thecartridge body 6002 as shown. In at least one form, the third staplecavities 6032 are parallel with corresponding first staple cavities6012. Other staple or fastener cavity arrangements could be employed,however. In addition, the staple cartridge body 6002 may have lateralledges 6008 protruding laterally therefrom. As can also be seen in FIG.66, the proximal end 6003 of the cartridge body 6002 is narrower thanthe remaining portion of the cartridge body 6002.

In the illustrated embodiment, the buttress body 6102 includes fouredges 6110, 6140, 6150, 6160 and a central portion 6152. At least two ofthe edges 6110, 6140, 6150, 6160 include various edge notchconfigurations. In the illustrated embodiment, edges 6110, 6160 includeedge notches therein. More specifically as can be seen in FIG. 67, afirst plurality of first edge notches 6114 are formed in a first portion6112 of the first edge 6110. In the illustrated embodiment, the firstedge notches 6114 extend inward from the first edge portion 6112 at afirst acute angle 6115 (“notch angle”) and are parallel to each other.As can be further seen in FIGS. 66 and 67, second edge notches 6118extend inward from a second portion 6116 of the first edge portion 6112.In one arrangement, for example, the second edge notches 6118 extendperpendicularly inward (“notch angle”) from the second portion 6116. Ascan be further seen in FIGS. 66 and 67, third edge notches 6122 extendinward from a third portion 6120 of the first edge portion 6110. In onearrangement, for example, the third edge notches 6122 extendperpendicularly inward (“notch angle”) from the third portion 6120. Ascan be further seen in FIGS. 66 and 67, fourth edge notches 6126 extendinward from a fourth portion 6124 of the first edge portion 6110. In onearrangement, for example, the fourth edge notches 6126 extend inward atan acute angle (“notch angle”) from the fourth portion 6124. As can befurther seen in FIGS. 66 and 67, fifth edge notches 6130 extend inwardfrom a fifth portion 6128 of the first edge portion 6110. In onearrangement, for example, the fifth edge notches 6130 extend inward atan acute angle (“notch angle”) from the fifth portion 6128.

Still referring to FIGS. 66 and 67, a series of primary edge notches6164 extend inward from a primary portion 6162 of the second edgeportion 6160. In the illustrated arrangement, the primary edge notches6164 extend perpendicularly inward (“notch angle”) from primary edgeportion 6162. As can be further seen in FIGS. 66 and 67, secondary edgenotches 6168 extend inward from a secondary portion 6166 of the secondedge 6160. In one arrangement, for example, the secondary edge notches6168 extend inward at an acute angle (“notch angle”) from the secondaryedge portion 6166. As can be further seen in FIGS. 66 and 67, tertiaryedge notches 6172 extend inward from a tertiary portion 6170 of thesecond edge 6160. In one arrangement, for example, the tertiary edgenotches 6172 extend inward at an acute angle (“notch angle”) from thetertiary portion 6170. As can be further seen in FIGS. 66 and 67,quaternary edge notches 6176 extend inward from a quaternary portion6174 of the second edge 6160. In one arrangement, for example, thequaternary edge notches 6176 extend perpendicularly inward (“notchangle”) from the quaternary portion 6174. As can be further seen inFIGS. 66 and 67, quinary edge notches 6180 extend inward from a quinaryportion 6178 of the second edge portion 6160. In one arrangement, forexample, the quinary edge notches 6180 extend perpendicularly inward(“notch angle”) from the quinary portion 6178.

The buttress material 6100 illustrated in FIGS. 66 and 67 also has fivedifferent widths, W1, W2, W3, W4, W5 along the total length of thebuttress 6100. W1 corresponds to edge portions 6112, 6162. W2corresponds to edge portions 6116, 6166. W3 corresponds to edge portions6120, 6170. W4 corresponds to edge portions 6124, 6174. W5 correspondsto edge portions 6128, 6178. Other buttress material embodiments mayhave a constant width or different numbers of widths that facilitateoperational support on the staple cartridge and/or anvil of the surgicalstapling instrument. In addition, the numbers, shapes, sizes andarrangements of edge notches may vary depending upon the embodiment.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 66 and 67, the buttress material 6100includes a plurality of cutout openings therein. As can be seen in thoseFigures, the cutouts are arranged in parallel rows. In particular, thecutouts 6204 in rows 6200 comprise slits that are arranged at an anglerelative to the edge portions such that the cutouts 6204 in each row6200 are parallel to each other. The cutouts 6204 may or may not extendcompletely through the buttress material 6100. Similarly, the cutouts6206 in rows 6202 comprise slits that are perpendicularly transverse tothe edge portions of the buttress material 6100. The cutouts 6206 may ormay not extend completely through the buttress material 6100. In otherembodiments, the number, shape, size, orientation, spacing, depth andlocation of such cutouts may vary.

FIG. 68 illustrates one cutout arrangement wherein the staple cavitypositions 6012, 6022, and 6032 are shown in broken lines. As can be seenin that Figure, no portion of any cutouts 6204, 6206 is positioned overany one of the staple cavities, 6012, 6022, 6032 when the buttressmaterial 6100 is positioned in registration on the deck 6004 of thesurgical staple cartridge 6000. FIG. 69 illustrates a similar buttressmaterial arrangement wherein the staple cavities 6012, 6022, and 6032are shown in broken lines. The portions 6103 of the buttress material6100′ wherein the staple/fastener legs will ultimately penetrate throughare also shown in broken lines. Portions 6103 may also be referred toherein as “staple penetration zones”. As can be seen in that Figure, noportion of any of the cutouts 6208, 6209 is located over any or thestaple penetration zones 6103. The cutouts 6208 and 6209 are arranged inlongitudinal rows in the buttress material 6100′. The cutouts 6208 ineach row are approximately parallel to each other and are arranged at anacute angle relative to the edges of the buttress material 6100′.Similarly, the cutouts 6209 in each row are approximately parallel toeach other and are arranged such that they are perpendicular to thecutouts 6208 in adjacent rows. The cutouts 6208 may or may not extendcompletely through the buttress material 6100′. As can also be seen inFIG. 69 one entire row of cutouts 6208 is located between the locationsof fastener cavities 6032 and the edge of the buttress material 6100′ tofacilitate further flexibility of the buttress material 6100′. As withthe other embodiments, the number, shape, size, orientation, spacing,depth and location of such cutouts may vary.

FIG. 70 illustrates another buttress member embodiment 6100″. In thisembodiment, the buttress material includes a plurality of edge notches6300 that comprise undulating wave-like curves which form serpentineedges. Such edge notches/serpentine edges allow for rotation of stapleswhile reducing material stress during expansion.

FIGS. 71 and 72 illustrates another buttress member 6400 that isfabricated out of a woven material that may be bioabsorbable or may notbe bioabsorbable. Further, the buttress material may comprise any of thebuttress materials described herein and include the unique and novelattributes described below. For example, the buttress member 6400 mayinclude a hole or opening 6402 therethrough for cooperating with acorrespondingly-shaped portion of the surgical staple cartridge or anvil(e.g., a post, protrusion, etc.) to support the buttress member 6400 ina desired orientation/registration relative to the staples/fasteners inthe staple cartridge. In the illustrated arrangement, the buttressmember 6400 includes a plurality of staple zones 6404, 6406, 6408 thatare located therein for registration with corresponding 6012, 6022, 6032fastener cavities in the surgical staple cartridge when the buttressmember 6400 is supported on the cartridge deck. The staple zones may beformed by compressing the material and applying heat thereto to causethe material to permanently assume the compressed state. As can be seenin FIG. 72, the compressed staple areas (generally represented as 6410)have a smaller cross-sectional thickness than the adjacentnon-compressed portions (generally represented as 6412) of the buttressmember 6400. In addition, the buttress member 6400 may have linear edges6420, 6422, 6424 and/or serpentine edge(s) 6426. The buttress member mayhave a shape that corresponds to the shape of the surgical staplecartridge and/or anvil of the surgical instrument.

All of the foregoing buttress member embodiments may be employed on thedeck of the surgical staple cartridge or used in connection with ananvil of a surgical stapling device. All of the buttress members mayhave a shape that corresponds to the shape of the surgical staplecartridge and/or anvil and may have straight or linear edges or edgeportions and/or wavy, jagged and or serpentine edges or a combination ofsuch edge configurations. The buttress members may have a constant widthor they may have a plurality of widths. The cutouts through the buttressmaterial remove excess material to facilitate or allow for moredeformation of the buttress, twisting, etc. with less stress throughoutthe buttress material during longitudinal expansion. Stated another way,the cutouts enable the buttress to “accordion” in the same manner as thestaples themselves are moving. Serpentine or irregular edges allow forrotation of staples while reducing material stress during expansion. Thebuttress configurations described above comprise “softened structures”that allow for increased extensibility, while still sealing relevantregions. In addition, the buttress members described above not onlydon't inhibit staple twisting, but also allow the staples and adjunct(buttress) to move in the same manner when stretched. Such buttressmember arrangements comprise buttress members that essentially compriseregions of various mechanical behaviors which allow for optimalperformance of the staple lines.

FIGS. 73-78 illustrate another staple cartridge 6500 that is similar inconstruction to staple cartridge 6000 discussed above, except thatstaple cartridge 6500 additional includes a plurality of projections. Inthe illustrated example, the surgical staple cartridge 6500 includes acartridge body 6502 that defines the deck 6504. The cartridge body 6502is mounted within a bottom tray 6524 and includes a centrally disposedelongate slot 6506 that is configured to receive a tissue cutting member(not shown) therethrough. A plurality of staple pockets or staplecavities is provided in the deck 6504 on each side of the elongate slot6506. As shown, first rows 6510 of first cavities 6512 are provided oneach side of the elongate slot 6506. The first cavities 6512 in eachfirst row 6510 are parallel to each other. Each of the first cavities6512 is arranged at an angle relative to the elongate slot 6506 and isadjacent thereto. The illustrated cartridge body 6502 further includestwo rows 6520 of second staple cavities 6522 that are arranged at anglesrelative to the first staple cavities 6512. Two rows 6530 of thirdstaple cavities 6532 are also provided in the cartridge body as shown.In at least one form, the third staple cavities 6532 are parallel withcorresponding first staple cavities 6512. The cartridge body 6502further has two longitudinal sides 6508.

The cartridge body 6502 can further comprise a plurality of projections6550 that extend from the deck surface 6504. Projections 6550 can beconfigured to engage tissue positioned intermediate the anvil 5360 andthe cartridge 6500 and control the movement of the tissue relative tothe cartridge 6500. Tissue can move relative to the cartridge 6500 invarious instances. In at least one instance, tissue can flow relative tothe cartridge 6500 when the anvil is moved between an open position anda closed position in which the tissue is squeezed between the anvil andthe cartridge 6500. In such instances, the tissue may flow laterallytoward the longitudinal sides 6508, distally toward the distal end 6503,and/or proximally toward the proximal end 6505. In at least one otherinstance, tissue can flow relative to the cartridge 6500 when thecutting member is advanced distally through the tissue captured betweenthe anvil and the cartridge 6500. In such instances, tissue may flowlaterally, distally, and/or proximally, but it primarily flows distallydue to the distal movement of the cutting edge. In various instances,projections 6550 can be configured to limit or prevent the flow of thetissue relative to the staple cartridge. Projections 6550 can bepositioned at the proximal end and/or the distal end of the staplecavities 6512, 6522, 6532. In various instances, each projection 6550can comprise a cuff extending around an end of a corresponding staplecavity 6512, 6522 and 6532. In certain instances, each projection 6550can comprise an arcuate ridge that extends around an end of acorresponding staple cavity 6512, 6522 and 6532.

FIGS. 76-78 illustrate a cartridge arrangement that includes projections6550. The cartridge arrangement depicted in FIGS. 73-75 is similar tothe cartridge of FIGS. 76-78, but also includes rows of projection posts6560 that are formed on the deck surface 6504. In the arrangement ofFIGS. 73-75, for example, a projection post 6560 is provided betweeneach staple cavity 6512, 6522 and 6532 in each row of staple cavities.The projection posts 6560 serve to further control the flow of tissueduring the clamping and firing process.

Referring primarily to FIG. 73, the cartridge body 6502 includes asloped transition 6570 extending between the distal tip of the cartridgebody 6502 and the deck surface 6504. The sloped transition 6570facilitates the movement of the cartridge 6500 relative to the tissuewhen positioning the cartridge 6500 and the anvil within a surgicalsite. In such instances, the tissue can slide over the sloped surface6570. In other arrangements, the sloped surface 6570 comprises aradiused surface. In the illustrated arrangement, the sloped surface6570 comprises an angled surface. In still other arrangements, thesloped surface 6570 comprises a concave surface and/or a convex surface.

The staple cavities 6512, 6522, and 6532 defined in the cartridge body6502 are arranged in longitudinal rows on each side of the longitudinalslot 6506. Each projection 6550 can be configured to support at least aportion of a staple 6542 removably stored in a staple cavity 6512, 6522and 6532. In various instances, each projection 6550 can extend anendwall 6513, 6515 of the staple cavity 6512, 6522, and 6532 above thedeck 6504. In certain instances, referring generally to FIG. 78, astaple 6542 positioned within the staple cavity 6512, 6522, 6532includes a base 6543, a first leg 6545 extending from the base 6543 at afirst angle, and a second leg 6547 extending from the base 6543 at asecond angle. The first leg 6545 can be in contact with a first endwall6513 of a staple cavity 6532 and the second leg 6547 can be in contactwith a second endwall 6515 of the staple cavity 6512, 6522, 6532. Incertain instances, the distance, or spread, between the first leg 6545and the second leg 6547 of the staple 6542 can be wider than thedistance between the endwalls 6513, 6515 such that, when the staple 6542is positioned within the staple cavity 6512, 6522, 6532, the legs 6545,6547 are biased inwardly by the endwalls 6513, 6515. When the staple6542 is stored within the staple cavity 6512, 6522, 6532 in its unfired,or unlifted, position, the tips of the staple legs 6545, 6547 may bepositioned within the projections 6550. In such instances, theprojections 6550 can support and protect the tips of the staple legs6545, 6547 above the deck 6504. In some instances, the tips of thestaple legs 6545, 6547 may be positioned below the projections 6550 whenthe staple 6542 is in its unfired position and, thus, the projections6550 may not support the staple legs 6545, 6547 when the staple 6542 isin its unfired position. When such a staple 6542 is fired, or lifted outof the staple cavity 6512, 6522, 6532, the staple legs 6545, 6547 maythen come into contact with and be supported by the projections 6550. Inany event, the projections 6550 can continue to support the staple legs6545, 6547 as the staple 6542 is deployed until the staple 6542 has beensufficiently fired and/or lifted out of the staple cavity 6512, 6522,6532 such that the staple legs 6545, 6547 are no longer in contact withthe projections 6550.

A layer, such as buttress material, for example, may be made from anybiocompatible material. Buttress material may be formed from a naturalmaterial and/or a synthetic material. Buttress material may bebioabsorbable and/or non-bioabsorbable. It should be understood that anycombination of natural, synthetic, bioabsorbable and non-bioabsorbablematerials may be used to form buttress material. Some non-limitingexamples of materials from which the buttress material may be madeinclude, but are not limited to, poly(lactic acid), poly(glycolic acid),poly(hydroxybutyrate), poly(phosphazine), polyesters, polyethyleneglycols, polyethylene oxides, polyacrylamides,polyhydroxyethylmethylacrylate, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyvinylalcohols, polyacrylic acid, polyacetate, polycaprolactone,polypropylene, aliphatic polyesters, glycerols, poly(amino acids),copoly(ether-esters), polyalkylene oxalates, polyamides, poly(iminocarbonates), polyalkylene oxalates, polyoxaesters,polyorthoesters, polyphosphazenes and copolymers, block copolymers,homopolymers, blends and/or combinations thereof, for example.

Natural biological polymers can be used in forming the buttressmaterial. Suitable natural biological polymers include, but are notlimited to, collagen, gelatin, fibrin, fibrinogen, elastin, keratin,albumin, hydroxyethyl cellulose, cellulose, oxidized cellulose,hydroxypropyl cellulose, carboxyethyl cellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, chitan, chitosan, and/or combinations thereof, for example.Natural biological polymers may be combined with any of the otherpolymeric materials described herein to produce the buttress material.Collagen of human and/or animal origin, e.g., type I porcine or bovinecollagen, type I human collagen or type III human collagen may be usedto form the buttress material. The buttress material may be made fromdenatured collagen or collagen which has at least partially lost itshelical structure through heating or any other method, consisting mainlyof non-hydrated a chains, of molecular weight close to 100 kDa, forexample. The term “denatured collagen” means collagen which has lost itshelical structure. The collagen used for the porous layer as describedherein may be native collagen or atellocollagen, notably as obtainedthrough pepsin digestion and/or after moderate heating as definedpreviously, for example. The collagen may have been previouslychemically modified by oxidation, methylation, succinylation, ethylationand/or any other known process.

Where the buttress material is fibrous, the fibers may be filaments orthreads suitable for knitting or weaving or may be staple fibers, suchas those frequently used for preparing non-woven materials. The fibersmay be made from any biocompatible material. The fibers may be formedfrom a natural material or a synthetic material. The material from whichthe fibers are formed may be bioabsorbable or non-bioabsorbable. Itshould be understood that any combination of natural, synthetic,bioabsorbable and non-bioabsorbable materials may be used to form thefibers. Some non-limiting examples of materials from which the fibersmay be made include, but are not limited to, poly(lactic acid),poly(glycolic acid), poly(hydroxybutyrate), poly(phosphazine),polyesters, polyethylene glycols, polyethylene oxides, polyacrylamides,polyhydroxyethylmethylacrylate, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyvinylalcohols, polyacrylic acid, polyacetate, polycaprolactone,polypropylene, aliphatic polyesters, glycerols, poly(amino acids),copoly(ether-esters), polyalkylene oxalates, polyamides,poly(iminocarbonates), polyalkylene oxalates, polyoxaesters,polyorthoesters, polyphosphazenes and copolymers, block copolymers,homopolymers, blends and/or combinations thereof. Where the buttressmaterial is fibrous, the buttress material may be formed using anymethod suitable to forming fibrous structures including, but not limitedto, knitting, weaving, non-woven techniques and the like, for example.Where the buttress material is a foam, the porous layer may be formedusing any method suitable to forming a foam or sponge including, but notlimited to the lyophilization or freeze-drying of a composition, forexample.

The buttress material may possesses haemostatic properties. Illustrativeexamples of materials which may be used in providing the buttressmaterial with the capacity to assist in stopping bleeding or hemorrhageinclude, but are not limited to, poly(lactic acid), poly(glycolic acid),poly(hydroxybutyrate), poly(caprolactone), poly(dioxanone),polyalkyleneoxides, copoly(ether-esters), collagen, gelatin, thrombin,fibrin, fibrinogen, fibronectin, elastin, albumin, hemoglobin,ovalbumin, polysaccharides, hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate,hydroxyethyl starch, hydroxyethyl cellulose, cellulose, oxidizedcellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, carboxyethyl cellulose,carboxymethyl cellulose, chitan, chitosan, agarose, maltose,maltodextrin, alginate, clotting factors, methacrylate, polyurethanes,cyanoacrylates, platelet agonists, vasoconstrictors, alum, calcium, RGDpeptides, proteins, protamine sulfate, epsilon amino caproic acid,ferric sulfate, ferric subsulfates, ferric chloride, zinc, zincchloride, aluminum chloride, aluminum sulfates, aluminum acetates,permanganates, tannins, bone wax, polyethylene glycols, fucans and/orcombinations thereof, for example. The use of natural biologicalpolymers, and in particular proteins, may be useful in forming buttressmaterial having haemostatic properties. Suitable natural biologicalpolymers include, but are not limited to, collagen, gelatin, fibrin,fibrinogen, elastin, keratin, albumin and/or combinations thereof, forexample. Natural biological polymers may be combined with any otherhaemostatic agent to produce the porous layer of the buttress. Theentire disclosure of U.S. Pat. No. 8,496,683, entitled BUTTRESS ANDSURGICAL STAPLING APPARATUS, which issued on Jul. 30, 2013, isincorporated by reference herein.

The entire disclosures of:

U.S. Pat. No. 5,403,312, entitled ELECTROSURGICAL HEMOSTATIC DEVICE,which issued on Apr. 4, 1995;

U.S. Pat. No. 7,000,818, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVINGSEPARATE DISTINCT CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS, which issued on Feb. 21,2006;

U.S. Pat. No. 7,422,139, entitled MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING ANDFASTENING INSTRUMENT WITH TACTILE POSITION FEEDBACK, which issued onSep. 9, 2008;

U.S. Pat. No. 7,464,849, entitled ELECTRO-MECHANICAL SURGICAL INSTRUMENTWITH CLOSURE SYSTEM AND ANVIL ALIGNMENT COMPONENTS, which issued on Dec.16, 2008;

U.S. Pat. No. 7,670,334, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING ANARTICULATING END EFFECTOR, which issued on Mar. 2, 2010;

U.S. Pat. No. 7,753,245, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS, whichissued on Jul. 13, 2010;

U.S. Pat. No. 8,393,514, entitled SELECTIVELY ORIENTABLE IMPLANTABLEFASTENER CARTRIDGE, which issued on Mar. 12, 2013;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/343,803, entitled SURGICALINSTRUMENT HAVING RECORDING CAPABILITIES; now U.S. Pat. No. 7,845,537;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/031,573, entitled SURGICAL CUTTINGAND FASTENING INSTRUMENT HAVING RF ELECTRODES, filed Feb. 14, 2008;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/031,873, entitled END EFFECTORS FORA SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING INSTRUMENT, filed Feb. 15, 2008, nowU.S. Pat. No. 7,980,443;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/235,782, entitled MOTOR-DRIVENSURGICAL CUTTING INSTRUMENT, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,210,411;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/249,117, entitled POWERED SURGICALCUTTING AND STAPLING APPARATUS WITH MANUALLY RETRACTABLE FIRING SYSTEM,now U.S. Pat. No. 8,608,045;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/647,100, entitled MOTOR-DRIVENSURGICAL CUTTING INSTRUMENT WITH ELECTRIC ACTUATOR DIRECTIONAL CONTROLASSEMBLY, filed Dec. 24, 2009; now U.S. Pat. No. 8,220,688;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/893,461, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE,filed Sep. 29, 2012, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,733,613;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/036,647, entitled SURGICAL STAPLINGINSTRUMENT, filed Feb. 28, 2011, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,561,870;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/118,241, entitled SURGICAL STAPLINGINSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENTS, now U.S.Patent Application Publication No. 2012/0298719;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/524,049, entitled ARTICULATABLESURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A FIRING DRIVE, filed on Jun. 15, 2012;now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013/0334278;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/800,025, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGETISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM, filed on Mar. 13, 2013;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/800,067, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGETISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM, filed on Mar. 13, 2013;

U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0175955, entitled SURGICALCUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT WITH CLOSURE TRIGGER LOCKING MECHANISM,filed Jan. 31, 2006; and

U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010/0264194, entitled SURGICALSTAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH AN ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTOR, filed Apr. 22,2010, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,308,040, are hereby incorporated by referenceherein.

Although the various embodiments of the devices have been describedherein in connection with certain disclosed embodiments, manymodifications and variations to those embodiments may be implemented.Also, where materials are disclosed for certain components, othermaterials may be used. Furthermore, according to various embodiments, asingle component may be replaced by multiple components, and multiplecomponents may be replaced by a single component, to perform a givenfunction or functions. The foregoing description and following claimsare intended to cover all such modification and variations.

The devices disclosed herein can be designed to be disposed of after asingle use, or they can be designed to be used multiple times. In eithercase, however, the device can be reconditioned for reuse after at leastone use. Reconditioning can include any combination of the steps ofdisassembly of the device, followed by cleaning or replacement ofparticular pieces, and subsequent reassembly. In particular, the devicecan be disassembled, and any number of the particular pieces or parts ofthe device can be selectively replaced or removed in any combination.Upon cleaning and/or replacement of particular parts, the device can bereassembled for subsequent use either at a reconditioning facility, orby a surgical team immediately prior to a surgical procedure. Thoseskilled in the art will appreciate that reconditioning of a device canutilize a variety of techniques for disassembly, cleaning/replacement,and reassembly. Use of such techniques, and the resulting reconditioneddevice, are all within the scope of the present application.

Preferably, the invention described herein will be processed beforesurgery. First, a new or used instrument is obtained and if necessarycleaned. The instrument can then be sterilized. In one sterilizationtechnique, the instrument is placed in a closed and sealed container,such as a plastic or TYVEK bag. The container and instrument are thenplaced in a field of radiation that can penetrate the container, such asgamma radiation, x-rays, or high-energy electrons. The radiation killsbacteria on the instrument and in the container. The sterilizedinstrument can then be stored in the sterile container. The sealedcontainer keeps the instrument sterile until it is opened in the medicalfacility.

While this invention has been described as having exemplary designs, thepresent invention may be further modified within the spirit and scope ofthe disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover anyvariations, uses, or adaptations of the invention using its generalprinciples. Further, this application is intended to cover suchdepartures from the present disclosure as come within known or customarypractice in the art to which this invention pertains.

Any patent, publication, or other disclosure material, in whole or inpart, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein isincorporated herein only to the extent that the incorporated materialsdoes not conflict with existing definitions, statements, or otherdisclosure material set forth in this disclosure. As such, and to theextent necessary, the disclosure as explicitly set forth hereinsupersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference.Any material, or portion thereof, that is said to be incorporated byreference herein, but which conflicts with existing definitions,statements, or other disclosure material set forth herein will only beincorporated to the extent that no conflict arises between thatincorporated material and the existing disclosure material.

What is claimed is:
 1. A staple cartridge, comprising: a cartridge body;a plurality of staples removably positioned in the cartridge body; adriver movably positioned relative to the cartridge body, wherein thedriver comprises a plurality of troughs, and wherein each of the troughscomprises: a first end; a second end; and a trough axis extendingbetween the first end and the second end; and a sled configured to movealong a firing path at least partially through the cartridge body,wherein the firing path crosses at least one of the trough axes.
 2. Thestaple cartridge of claim 1, wherein each of the troughs is aligned withone of the staples.
 3. The staple cartridge of claim 1, wherein at leastone of the trough axes is substantially parallel to the firing path. 4.The staple cartridge of claim 1, wherein the plurality of troughscomprises: a first trough; and a second trough, wherein the trough axisof the first trough traverses the trough axis of the second trough. 5.The staple cartridge of claim 4, wherein the driver further comprises: afirst step having a first height, wherein the first trough is definedinto the first step; and a second step having a second height, whereinthe second height is different than the first height, and wherein thesecond trough is defined into the second step.
 6. The staple cartridgeof claim 5, wherein the driver further comprises a flange connecting thefirst step and the second step.
 7. The staple cartridge of claim 4,wherein the plurality of troughs further comprises a third trough, andwherein the trough axis of the third trough is substantially parallel tothe trough axis of the first trough.
 8. The staple cartridge of claim 4,where the trough axis of the first trough is substantially perpendicularto the trough axis of the second trough.
 9. A staple cartridge,comprising: a cartridge body comprising a deck, wherein a longitudinalslot is defined at least partially through the cartridge body, wherein aplurality of staple cavities are defined into the cartridge body, andwherein the plurality of staple cavities comprises: a first staplecavity comprising a first opening in the deck on a first side of thelongitudinal slot; and a second staple cavity comprising a secondopening in the deck on the first side of the longitudinal slot; aplurality of staples, comprising: a first staple removably positioned inthe first staple cavity, wherein the first staple comprises a firstbase; and a second staple removably positioned in the second staplecavity, wherein the second staple comprises a second base; and a drivermovably positioned relative to the cartridge body, wherein the drivercomprises: a first trough, wherein the first base is aligned with thefirst trough; and a second trough, wherein the second base is alignedwith the second trough, and wherein the second trough isangularly-oriented relative to the first trough.
 10. The staplecartridge of claim 9, wherein each opening further comprises: a firstend; a second end; and an axis extending between the first end and thesecond end, wherein the axis of the second opening traverses the axis ofthe first opening.
 11. The staple cartridge of claim 9, wherein thedriver comprises a unitary molded piece.
 12. The staple cartridge ofclaim 9, wherein the second trough is substantially perpendicular to thefirst trough.
 13. The staple cartridge of claim 9, wherein the driverfurther comprises: a first step having a first height, wherein the firsttrough is defined in the first step; a second step having a secondheight, wherein the second trough is defined in the second step, andwherein the second height is different than the first height; and aflange connecting the first step and the second step.
 14. The staplecartridge of claim 9, further comprising a sled, wherein the sledcomprises a drive surface configured to move along a drive axis, whereinthe driver further comprises a center of mass, and wherein the driveaxis extends through the center of mass.
 15. The staple cartridge ofclaim 9, wherein the driver further comprises a center of mass, andwherein the staple cartridge further comprises a sled, and wherein thesled comprises: a first drive surface configured to move along a firstdrive axis; and a second drive surface configured to move along a seconddrive axis, wherein the second drive axis is substantially parallel tothe first drive axis, and wherein the first drive axis and the seconddrive axis are equidistant from the center of mass.
 16. The staplecartridge of claim 15, wherein the first drive surface and the seconddrive surface are longitudinally staggered.
 17. The staple cartridge ofclaim 9, wherein the plurality of staple cavities further comprises athird staple cavity comprising a third opening on the first side of thelongitudinal slot, wherein the plurality of staples further comprises athird staple removably positioned in the third staple cavity, andwherein the third staple comprises a third base; and wherein the driverfurther comprises a third trough, wherein the third base is aligned withthe third trough, and wherein the third trough is angularly-orientedrelative to the first trough.
 18. The staple cartridge of claim 17,wherein the third trough is substantially parallel to the second trough.19. The staple cartridge of claim 9, further comprising a detacheddriver comprising a third trough, wherein the plurality of staplesfurther comprises a third staple comprising a third base, wherein thethird base is aligned with the third trough, and wherein the thirdtrough is angularly-oriented relative to the first trough.
 20. Thestaple cartridge of claim 19, wherein the detached driver furthercomprises a fourth trough, and wherein the fourth trough issubstantially parallel to the first trough.
 21. The staple cartridge ofclaim 19, wherein the driver further comprises a first center of mass,wherein the detached driver further comprises a second center of mass,and wherein the staple cartridge further comprises a sled thatcomprises: a first drive surface configured to move along a first driveaxis, wherein the first drive axis extends through the first center ofmass; and a second drive surface configured to move along a second driveaxis, wherein the second drive axis is substantially parallel to thefirst drive axis, and wherein the second drive axis extends through thesecond center of mass.
 22. The staple cartridge of claim 21, wherein thefirst drive surface and the second drive surface are longitudinallyoffset.
 23. A staple cartridge, comprising: a cartridge body comprisinga deck, wherein a longitudinal slot is defined at least partiallythrough the cartridge body, wherein a plurality of staple cavities aredefined into the cartridge body, wherein the plurality of staplecavities comprises a staple cavity comprising an opening in the deck ona first side of the longitudinal slot, and wherein the opening isangularly-oriented relative to the longitudinal slot; and a stapleremovably positioned in the staple cavity and comprising asled-engagement surface, wherein the staple is configured to move froman unfired position to a fired position relative to the cartridge body;and a sled comprising a staple-engagement surface, wherein the sled isconfigured to move along the longitudinal slot at least partiallythrough the cartridge body, and wherein the staple-engagement surface isconfigured to directly engage the sled-engagement surface to move thestaple from the unfired position to the fired position.
 24. The staplecartridge of claim 23, wherein the staple engagement surface comprises afirst staple-engagement surface, wherein the sled-engagement surfacecomprises a first sled-engagement surface, wherein the staple furthercomprises a second sled-engagement surface, wherein the sled furthercomprises a second staple-engagement surface, and wherein thesecond-staple engagement surface is configured to engage the secondsled-engagement surface.
 25. The staple cartridge of claim 24, andwherein the second staple-engagement surface is longitudinally offsetfrom the first staple-engagement surface.
 26. The staple cartridge ofclaim 25, wherein the staple further comprises a center of mass, andwherein the first sled-engagement surface and the second sled-engagementsurface are equidistant from the center of mass.
 27. The staplecartridge of claim 23, wherein the staple further comprises a base,wherein a notch is defined into the base, and wherein thesled-engagement surface extends along the notch.
 28. The staplecartridge of claim 23, wherein the staple cavity comprises a firststaple cavity, and wherein the opening comprises a first opening;wherein the plurality of staple cavities further comprises a secondstaple cavity comprising a second opening in the deck on the first sideof the longitudinal slot, and wherein the second opening isangularly-oriented relative to the first opening.
 29. The staplecartridge of claim 28, wherein the staple comprises a first staple,comprising: a first leg; and a first base having a first length; whereinthe staple cartridge further comprises a second staple removablypositioned in the second staple cavity, and wherein the second staplecomprises: a second leg; and a second base having a second length,wherein the second length is different than the first length.
 30. Thestaple cartridge of claim 23, wherein the staple comprises a firststaple, and wherein the staple-engagement surface comprises a firststaple-engagement surface; wherein the plurality of staple cavitiesfurther comprises a second staple cavity; wherein the staple cartridgefurther comprises a second staple removably positioned in the secondstaple cavity, wherein the second staple is configured to move from anunfired position to a fired position relative to the cartridge body, andwherein the second staple comprises a second sled-engagement surface;and wherein the sled further comprises a second staple-engagementsurface configured to engage the second sled-engagement surface to movethe second staple from the unfired position to the fired position, andwherein the second staple-engagement surface is laterally offset fromthe first staple-engagement surface.